KATHMANDU, July 24

The US Embassy in Kathmandu on Friday expressed its concern about recent media reports that some unscrupulous individuals were claiming that they could help Nepalis enter the United States and earn Temporary Protected Status.

“These claims are false and should be ignored,” read a statement issued by the embassy. “Only individuals who have been continuously physically present in the United States on or before June 24, 2015 and who continue to remain physically present in the United States are eligible for this status,” added the embassy.

On June 24, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) of the United States announced the designation of Nepal for TPS (Temporary Protected Status) in the aftermath of the April 25 earthquake.

Eligible Nepali nationals (and people without nationality who last habitually resided in Nepal) who are already residing in the United States may apply for TPS, according to the statement.

For Nepalis who meet these criteria, the registration period runs from June 24 until December 21.

TPS is a temporary benefit that does not lead to lawful permanent resident status or give any other immigration status.