Department of Homeland Security (DHS) officials have outlined the extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti for an additional 18 months, from Feb. 4, 2023, through Aug. 3, 2024.
DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas noted the action stems from extraordinary and temporary conditions in Haiti.
“We are providing much-needed humanitarian relief to Haitian nationals already present in the United States,” Mayorkas said. “The conditions in Haiti, including socioeconomic challenges, political instability, and gang violence and crime – aggravated by environmental disaster – compelled the humanitarian relief we are providing today.”
Additionally, Mayorkas redesignated Haiti for TPS, allowing Haitian nationals residing in the United States as of Nov. 6, 2022, to apply for TPS through Aug. 3, 2024, as long as they meet all eligibility requirements.
According to DHS, Haitians entering the United States after Nov. 6, 2022, are not eligible for TPS and, like other individuals without a legal basis to remain in the United States, will be subject to removal.
The agency indicated the extension and redesignation of Haiti for TPS occurred after consultation with interagency partners and consideration of conditions in Haiti that include a prolonged political crisis; insecurity and gang crime worsening a dire economic situation; a lack of access to food, water, fuel, and health care during a resurgence of cholera; and recent earthquakes.