USCIS has issued a reminder to nationals of Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone that individuals seeking temporary protected status (TPS) should apply by the August 18, 2015 deadline in order to be considered for the status. TPS provides temporary relief to individuals who are unable to return to their home country due to a natural disaster or civil unrest. Applicants for TPS from Liberia, Guinea and Sierra Leone should include proof that the applicant has been continuously residing in the U.S. since November 20, 2014, In addition, TPS requires security background checks.