ECNETNews, New York, NY, Weds. July 24, 2024: The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced an 18-month extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti, effective from August 4, 2024, to February 3, 2026. This extension brings crucial relief to Haitian nationals in the United States, safeguarding them from deportation and enabling legal employment during this period.
Key Points of the TPS for Haiti 2024 Extension and Redesignation
Extension for Existing Beneficiaries: Haitian nationals currently holding TPS must re-register within the designated 60-day re-registration window, from July 1, 2024, to August 30, 2024. This extension allows them to maintain their TPS status and Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) until February 3, 2026, as long as they meet all eligibility requirements.
Redesignation for New Applicants: The TPS redesignation also opens applications for new individuals who have resided in the U.S. since June 3, 2024. These new applicants must prove continuous physical presence in the U.S. since August 4, 2024, and meet additional eligibility criteria to qualify for TPS.
Registration and Re-registration Details
Re-registration: Current TPS beneficiaries must take action during the 60-day re-registration period to uphold their status and prevent any interruptions in their employment authorization. Delayed re-registration may lead to complications regarding work eligibility.
Those currently benefitting from TPS under the Haiti designation who have not re-registered recently must submit Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, by August 30, 2024, to continue receiving TPS benefits. It is essential to re-register on time during this window to avoid lapses in employment authorization.
Initial Registration: New applicants can register from July 1, 2024, to February 3, 2026. They are required to submit Form I-821 (Application for Temporary Protected Status) and, to obtain an EAD, Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization).
Employment Authorization
TPS beneficiaries qualify for an EAD, enabling them to work legally in the U.S. Employers must accept EADs as valid proof of identity and employment authorization. Additionally, DHS has automatically extended the validity of certain EADs until August 3, 2025, allowing beneficiaries to present these extended documents to maintain uninterrupted work eligibility.
Importance of TPS for Haiti
Haiti continues to grapple with significant challenges, such as political instability, gang violence, natural disasters, and widespread economic hardship. These extraordinary circumstances render return unsafe for Haitian nationals. The TPS extension and redesignation recognize these difficulties and provide essential support for Haitians in the U.S.
The 18-month extension and redesignation for TPS emphasize the critical need to protect Haitian nationals against the dire conditions in their homeland. This measure guarantees that eligible Haitians can remain safely in the U.S. and continue contributing to their communities without the fear of deportation.
For more information on applying for or re-registering for TPS for Haiti 2024, visit the official immigration resources.
