On May 22, 2021, DHS announced the designation of Haiti for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months.
In laying down the basis for TPS, Secretary Mayorkas stated the following:
“Haiti is currently experiencing serious security concerns, social unrest, an increase in human rights abuses, crippling poverty, and lack of basic resources, which are exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic,” said Secretary Mayorkas. “After careful consideration, we determined that we must do what we can to support Haitian nationals in the United States until conditions in Haiti improve so they may safely return home.”
This new designation of TPS enables Haitian nationals (and individuals without nationality who last resided in Haiti) currently residing in the United States to file initial applications for TPS, so long as they meet eligibility requirements.
Only individuals who can demonstrate continuous residence in the United States as of May 21, 2021 are eligible for TPS under Haiti’s designation. This is important because TPS is not available to those who enter the US after May 21, 2021.
Individuals desiring TPS must file an application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. They may also apply for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) and for travel authorization. All individuals applying for TPS undergo security and background checks as part of determining eligibility.