Afghanistan TPS Act of 2026

This legislation, known as the "Afghanistan TPS Act of 2026," mandates the designation of Afghanistan for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) under the Immigration and Nationality Act. This designation would be effective from the bill's enactment date until July 1, 2029, providing a specific timeframe for protection. The bill outlines the process for Afghan nationals to apply for TPS, requiring the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) to receive, process, and adjudicate applications within 90 days. DHS may extend this adjudication period by up to 150 days if national security concerns necessitate further evaluation, requiring certification to congressional committees. To be eligible, Afghan nationals must have been continuously physically present in the United States since the date of enactment and meet standard admissibility criteria, subject to certain exceptions. Applicants are also required to register for TPS, which includes submitting biometric and biographic data and completing criminal and national security background checks. The bill also mandates that DHS permit waivers for any fees associated with filing TPS applications and grant prior consent for brief, temporary travel abroad in emergency or extenuating circumstances.