TEMPORARY PROTECTED STATUS FOR SYRIAN NATIONALS

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE MARCH 23, 2012 STATEMENT FROM SECRETARY OF HOMELAND SECURITY JANET NAPOLITANO ON TEMPORARY PROTECTED STATUS FOR SYRIAN NATIONAL "In the light of the deteriorating condition in Syria, I am announcing the Department of Homeland Security will be designating Syria for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Syrians currently present in the United States. Conditions in Syria have worsened to the point where Syrian nationals already in the United States would face serious treats to their personal safety if they were to return to their home country. Early next week the Department will publish a notice in the Federal Register that will provide further guidance about TPS eligibility requirements and registration procedures. All applicants must undergo full background checks and while Syrians in the United States are encouraged to apply, they should not submit their applications before the notice is published."