The Department of Homeland Security extended Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian nationals for 18 months, beginning January 23, 2016 and lasting through July 22, 2017. Haitian nationals who are current beneficiaries of TPS must re-register their TPS status during a 60 day re-registration period that will run from August 25, 2015 until October 26, 2015. Re-registering will enable TPS beneficiaries to apply for a new employment authorization document.
TPS may be granted to foreign nationals who are present in the United States when disaster hits their home country or when conditions in their home country prevent safe return. TPS is granted for temporary conditions such as civil war and/or armed conflict and environmental disasters.
While a foreign national holds TPS, he or she:
- may not be removed from the United States;
- may apply for employment authorization; and
- may be granted travel authorization.
TPS is a temporary grant of lawful immigration status in the United States that does not lead to citizenship, permanent residence, or any other immigration status.