The Department of Homeland Security officially notified the public that the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 353,000 Haitian migrants living in the United States is being terminated, effective in February. This decision follows a long-standing policy that has provided temporary relief to Haitian nationals since 2010 after a devastating earthquake. The administration has concluded that the country no longer meets the statutory criteria for TPS, leading to a recommendation for migrants to prepare for possible deportation.
The announcement was accompanied by a federal register notice, explaining the rationale for the termination. It highlights the agency’s review process involving interagency consultations and an analysis that the current status of Haiti is inconsistent with U.S. national interests. The department has advised the affected migrants to prepare for their departure if they lack other lawful grounds to remain in the country. This is in line with the department’s broader immigration policies under the current administration.
Haiti has experienced significant turmoil for years, including natural disasters and political violence. The country’s situation has worsened in recent years, with governance effectively collapsing in 2021 after the assassination of its president. Kidnappings, gang rule, and lack of law enforcement have surged, causing many to attempt to flee to the United States despite U.S. immigration policies. The current administration’s decision to terminate TPS comes in light of ongoing assessments regarding the country’s ability to meet the criteria for such protections.
Previous administrations have maintained the TPS status, with the Biden administration extending it through 2026, citing multiple crises. The termination under the current administration has been a point of contention, with some expressing concerns about the humanitarian implications. The decision reflects a shift in immigration policy priorities, emphasizing national security and legal compliance over humanitarian considerations.