TPS for Haitians Being Terminated, Effective July 22, 2019

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on November 20, 2017 that the temporary protected status (TPS) designation for certain nationals of Haiti will be terminated as of July 22, 2019. Under the Trump Administration, the DHS has announced the termination of TPS designations for citizens of numerous countries, including Guinea, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Nicaragua.

Background on TPS

TPS allows nationals of designated countries who are in the United States to remain in the country for a specified period of time, due to conditions in their respective home countries that would prevent a safe return. The types of conditions that can give rise to a TPS designation include: armed conflicts, environmental disasters, epidemics, earthquakes, and other extraordinary, temporary conditions. Individuals who are granted TPS are protected against removal (deportation) from the U.S., and are eligible to apply for work and travel authorization. The TPS period is temporary, and does not lead to a permanent immigration status.

TPS Designation for Haiti

Qualifying Haitians were provided eligibility for TPS in January 2010 following a devastating earthquake in Haiti. There are presently almost 60,000 Haitians living in the United States pursuant to TPS. Haiti is one of the world’s poorest countries.

Conclusion

In May 2017, the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) recommended that Haiti’s TPS designation be terminated, so this move comes as little surprise. Still, given the severe hardships still faced in this impoverished nation, there was hope that the Administration would reconsider its decision. Barring any changes, however, Haitians on TPS will need to request a change of status, if possible, or else depart the United States before July 22, 2019.

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