Protection from Deportation for Venezuelan Nationals
By Julie Sparks in Deferred Enforced Departure | Deportation | Immigration | Temporary Protected Status | Venezuelan Nationals | Work Authorization | on 2021-01-20 22:24:00
The outgoing administration has granted protection from deportation for Venezuelan nationals as one of its last departing acts. While temporary protected status (TPS) has never been granted to Venezuelans despite many congressional efforts, Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) is now in effect.
Venezuelan Nationals Covered by DED Are Not Subject to Removal From The United States
On its U.S. Citizen and Immigration Services (UCSIS) website, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) explains:
“The president may authorize Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) in his discretion and as part of his constitutional power to conduct foreign relations. Individuals covered by DED are not subject to removal from the United States for a designated period of time. Individuals may also request employment authorization if it is provided as a benefit of DED.”
Thus, Venezuelans may now enjoy benefits similar to a TPS recipient. At present, we expect the period of protection and work authorization to last for 18 months. Those eligible include nationals of Venezuela who have continuously resided in the U.S. since January 20, 2021. Those who pose a security threat to the U.S., or who have 1 felony or 2 or more misdemeanors, are not eligible. Also, the DHS may make certain applicants ineligible by deciding their presence in the U.S. is not in the country’s national interest.
Seeking Protection From Deportation If You Are Venezuelan Nationals
If you are Venezuelan national seeking protection from deportation and work authorization, you should consult with an experienced immigration attorney who can represent you through the process.
With our goal to help the people of this great nation achieve their own unique American dream, J. Sparks Law, PLLC is always available to help with immigration cases, including those involving DED.
We have over 20 years of experience and ready to hear your story. Call us at (512) 952-2176 or contact us online to get started today.
Julie Sparks is Board-certified by the Texas Board of Legal Specialization in Immigration and Nationality Law, one of a few such attorneys in Texas. After 15 years of practice in this field, she has represented immigrants from more than 70 countries.
Ms. Sparks is a member of the Texas Bar Association and the American Immigration Lawyers Association (AILA). Julie has also been a featured speaker at Southwestern Law School and at the national 2015 AILA Fundamentals Conference.
- 15 years of practice in this field.
- She also founded and managed a non-profit organization representing indigent immigrants seeking asylum.
- Julie is a former immigration law instructor at the Pepperdine School of Law in Malibu, California, and California State University – Los Angeles.
