Designation of Temporary Protected Status for Haitians

On July 30, 2021, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) posted an unpublished notice in the Federal Register to designate Haiti for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months effective the date of publication in the Federal Register, through February 3, 2023. This includes approximately 55,000 current TPS Haiti beneficiaries, whose TPS-related documentation is automatically extended at least through October 4, 2021, in compliance with court orders. These individuals must file a new application for TPS under this designation to ensure they retain their status.  

The new designation of Haiti for TPS also enables an estimated 100,000 additional individuals who have been continuously residing in the United States since July 29, 2021, to file initial applications to obtain TPS. In light of recent events in Haiti, including the July assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, Secretary of Homeland Security Mayorkas modified the cut-off date for eligibility from what was previously announced to now be July 29, 2021. Individuals who attempt to travel to the U.S. after July 29, 2021, will not be eligible for TPS and will be subject to expulsion or removal.

Individuals applying for Haiti TPS must submit Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, during the 18-month initial registration period that runs from August 3, 2021, through February 3, 2023.  TPS applicants are eligible to file Form I-821 online. When filing a TPS application, applicants can also request an Employment Authorization Document by submitting a completed Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, with their Form I-821. Applicants may also submit Form I-765 online.