DHS Secretary Designates Haiti for TPS

The situation in Haiti was already “bad”, but after the assassination of President Jovenel Moïse, things took a turn for the worse. The decision of the U.S. government to designate Haiti for temporary protected status (TPS) is one to be received with joy for its compassion. Haiti is not safe at the moment.

On July 29, 2021, Department of Homeland Security designated TPS for 18 months, effective August 3, 2021 to February 3, 2023. It will allow approximately 55,000 current and 100,000 new beneficiaries to file for TPS. Therefore, if you already have TPS under the previous designation, you have to apply again under the current designation because your TPS will expire on Oct. 4, 2021. See USCIS DHS Secretary Designates Haiti for TPS | USCIS (last accessed 7/31/2021). If you do not have TPS you can apply now if you were in the United States before the cutoff date of July 29, 2021. Individuals who attempt to travel to the U.S. after July 29, 2021, will not be eligible for TPS.

TPS is legal status that otherwise the person would not have. A TPS holder can apply for work authorization. This is humane immigration politics that must be maintained.