Deferred Enforced Departure (or Temporary Protected Status) for Liberians was extended until June 20, 2022. But the benefit of DED pales in comparison to the benefit of the Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act. The Act allows certain Liberian nationals and their qualified family members who are present in the United States to apply for Lawful Permanent Resident (LPR) status if they have been present continuously in the U.S. since November 20, 2014. The deadline to file for adjustment of status under the Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act is December 20, 2021, and it is fast approaching.
The Act not only provides for LPR status for qualifying Liberians, it goes on to allow those who adjust to LPR status to be immediately eligible to apply for citizenship. This is because USCIS can use the earliest date the LPR can establish residence in the U.S. as the date of admission, thereby satisfying the residency requirement for citizenship.
This is an incredible opportunity for eligible Liberians. But it is critical the adjustment application be “properly filed” for the applicant to receive this valuable benefit. Therefore, we urge potential applicants to schedule a consultation with one of our attorneys. Remember, the deadline to apply for adjustment of status under the Liberian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act is right around the corner!