Form I-821
Application for Temporary Protected Status
Apply for or re-register Temporary Protected Status, which gives nationals of designated countries protection from removal and work authorization.
Filing fee
$50 (initial) / $0 (re-registration)
Biometrics: $85
Processing time
4–12 months
Varies by service center
Online filing
Available
File via my.uscis.gov
Form edition
2024
Only the current edition is accepted
Who files Form I-821?
Nationals of TPS-designated countries who meet physical presence and continuous residence requirements.
Where to file
Online via USCIS account, or by mail to the Phoenix or Dallas Lockbox.
Always verify the current address or online filing option on the official USCIS Form I-821 page before sending — lockbox assignments change.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Missing the registration window — TPS has strict initial and re-registration deadlines
- Not filing I-765 alongside I-821 for work authorization
- Failing to disclose all trips outside the U.S.
Filing tips
- Re-register during every USCIS re-registration window to maintain TPS
- TPS alone does not lead to a green card — but it may preserve eligibility for other paths
Frequently asked questions
What is Form I-821?
Apply for or re-register Temporary Protected Status, which gives nationals of designated countries protection from removal and work authorization.
Who files Form I-821?
Nationals of TPS-designated countries who meet physical presence and continuous residence requirements.
How much is the Form I-821 filing fee?
The current filing fee is $50 (initial) / $0 (re-registration), plus a $85 biometric services fee. Confirm the current amount on USCIS.gov before filing — fees changed most recently in the 2024 USCIS fee rule.
How long does Form I-821 take to process?
USCIS currently reports 4 months to 12 months for most cases. Processing times vary by service center and workload. Check the USCIS Case Processing Times tool for the latest estimates.
Can I file Form I-821 online?
Yes. Form I-821 can be filed online through a free USCIS account at my.uscis.gov. Online filing provides faster receipt notices and easier status tracking.
Related forms
Cost deep dive
Looking for a full cost breakdown including biometric fees, fee waivers, and payment methods? See the Form I-821 cost page.
Sources & Citations
All claims in this guide link to primary government sources.
- 1
- 2USCIS Case Processing Times— USCIS
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Not legal advice. This page is a plain-English summary for educational use. Current fees, processing times, and filing locations are controlled by USCIS and may change without notice. For case-specific guidance, consult a licensed immigration attorney.