How TPS Holders Can Get a Green Card

If you’re living in the U.S. with Temporary Protected Status (TPS), you already have work authorization and protection from removal—but TPS is, by definition, temporary and doesn’t by itself lead to a green card or citizenship.

The good news: many TPS holders can convert this interim status into a permanent future through employer sponsorship under the EB-3 employment-based category.

A green card changes everything. It brings durable stability, more freedom to live and work anywhere in the U.S., and a clear route to naturalization. Here’s how TPS holders can use their time wisely and move toward permanent residency.

Why Move from TPS to a Green Card?

• TPS is temporary. It requires periodic renewals and can end if your country’s designation changes.

• A green card is permanent. You can reside and work in the U.S. indefinitely without worrying about extensions.

• Citizenship pathway. Most green card holders can apply for U.S. citizenship after five years.

• Fewer constraints. Green card status typically reduces travel friction and broadens employment options.

The EB-3 category—via an employer willing to sponsor—often provides a practical route for TPS holders to secure permanent residency.

The EB-3 Process for TPS Holders: Step by Step

Step 1: PERM Labor Certification (U.S. Department of Labor)

Your employer must first show the Department of Labor (DOL) that there are no able, willing, qualified, and available U.S. workers for the offered role and that hiring you won’t harm wages or working conditions of similarly employed U.S. workers.

Typical timeframe: about 6–12 months, depending on recruitment steps and DOL processing.

Step 2: I-140 Immigrant Petition (USCIS)

After PERM approval, your employer files an I-140 petition with USCIS to classify you as an EB-3 worker. This filing demonstrates the permanent, full-time nature of the job and that you meet the role’s requirements.

Typical timeframe: roughly 6–12 months, subject to USCIS workloads (premium processing may be available for the I-140 stage).

Step 3: Adjustment of Status (I-485) When Your Priority Date Is Current

Once your priority date (set by the PERM filing) becomes current in the Visa Bulletin, you can apply to adjust status to permanent resident. Expect to submit supporting evidence, complete a medical exam, and possibly attend an interview.

Typical timeframe: commonly 6–12 months after filing, but it varies by visa availability, country of chargeability, and USCIS processing.

Note: Visa bulletin movement and backlogs differ by country. Timing is highly dependent on category and demand.

Green Card vs. TPS: What Changes for You?

Green Card Advantages

• Permanent residency: Live and work in the U.S. without renewal cycles.

• Path to citizenship: Eligibility to apply after five years (in most cases).

• Greater security: Not tied to shifting TPS designations.

• Easier travel: Reentry is generally simpler than with TPS-based travel documents.

• Career mobility: Work for any U.S. employer, not just those tied to maintaining your status.

TPS Limitations

• Temporary by design: Requires re-registration and can end with policy shifts.

• No automatic PR track: TPS alone does not convert into a green card or citizenship.

• Work permission is temporary: Employment authorization follows TPS validity.

• More travel hurdles: Advance authorization is typically required to travel abroad.

Ready to Start?

If you hold TPS, this is an ideal time to talk with your employer about EB-3 sponsorship. Taking action now can set you on a path to long-term security and eventual citizenship.

SmartInvestorVisas.com Team guides TPS holders through every step—from PERM strategy to I-140 and adjustment of status—so you can move forward with confidence.

Schedule your consultation and begin your green card journey today.