The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has officially announced that Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti will end on February 3, 2026. This decision impacts more than 300,000 Haitian nationals currently living in the United States under TPS protections.
As the expiration date approaches, thousands of families are now seeking legal guidance on how to maintain lawful status, keep work authorization, and avoid deportation. Below is a clear breakdown of what the termination means, who is affected, and what steps Haitian immigrants should take now.
What Is Happening to Haiti TPS?
DHS has confirmed that the current TPS designation for Haiti will not be renewed. Instead, it will expire on February 3, 2026, the end of the previously granted 18-month period.
Until that date:
- TPS protections remain valid.
- Work authorization remains valid for beneficiaries who hold current EADs.
- Individuals can continue living and working legally in the U.S. under TPS.
However, once the designation expires, TPS holders lose TPS-based protection unless they obtain another form of lawful status.
Why DHS Made This Decision
According to DHS announcements and federal publications, the agency determined that Haiti no longer meets the statutory conditions required for TPS. DHS cited changes in conditions and national interest considerations as the basis for ending the program.
While humanitarian organizations argue that Haiti remains unstable due to violence, political unrest, and economic crisis, the government’s decision has been finalized—barring any future litigation or policy change.
Who Will Be Affected?
The termination affects:
- Approx. 300,000–353,000 Haitian TPS beneficiaries
- Haitians who have been in the U.S. for many years, often with deep family and economic ties
- Individuals whose only legal status is TPS
- Employers who rely on Haitian TPS workers
Once TPS ends, those without another lawful immigration status may become undocumented and subject to removal.
Key Dates to Remember
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Original Haiti TPS designation extended | July 2024 |
| DHS attempted early termination | 2025 |
| Court blocks early termination | 2025 |
| Final TPS expiration date | February 3, 2026 |
While litigation temporarily protected beneficiaries from early termination, the final end date is now set.
What Happens After February 3, 2026?
If TPS ends as planned:
- Work authorization under TPS will no longer be valid
- Individuals will lose TPS-based protection from deportation
- Anyone without another immigration status will revert to their prior status (often “no status”)
- DHS may begin enforcement actions against those who remain without lawful presence
For many families, this means urgent legal planning is essential.
Possible Legal Options for Haitian Immigrants
Every individual’s situation is different, but Haitian nationals should consider reviewing:
1. Family-Based Immigration Options
Some TPS recipients may be eligible for:
- Marriage-based green cards
- Petitions from U.S. citizen children (age 21+)
- Parents, siblings, or other qualifying family members
2. Employment-Based Immigration
Workers with an employer sponsor may qualify for:
- Employment-based green cards
- Special worker visas
- Labor certification pathways
3. Humanitarian Relief
Depending on circumstances, some may qualify for:
- Asylum
- Withholding of removal
- U visas (victims of certain crimes)
- VAWA protections
- SIJS (for minors)
4. Adjustment of Status Based on Past Entries or Parole
Some long-term TPS holders may qualify for adjustment due to:
- Prior parole
- Approved petitions
5. Temporary Visas
- F-1 student status (in limited cases)
- Temporary work visas (in limited cases)
Because immigration law is complex, determining eligibility requires a case-by-case review with an attorney.
What Haitian TPS Holders Should Do Now
1. Consult an immigration attorney immediately
Waiting until the deadline approaches could result in losing opportunities to apply for other forms of relief.
2. Identify all possible status options
You may have more options than you realize—especially if you have lived in the U.S. for many years or have continued to maintain your nonimmigrant status.
3. Keep all immigration documents organized
USCIS will require consistent records to support future applications.
4. Avoid misinformation
Only rely on DHS, USCIS, and qualified immigration attorneys for accurate updates.
How Our Law Firm Can Help
Our firm is actively assisting Haitian TPS beneficiaries nationwide. We provide:
- Personalized immigration consultations
- Eligibility assessments for alternative status
- Family- and employment-based immigration filings (if eligible)
- Humanitarian relief applications (if eligible)
- Representation in removal proceedings (if applicable)
If you or a loved one is affected by the end of Haiti TPS, you do not have to navigate this transition alone.
Contact Us Today
Speak with an immigration attorney about your options before TPS expires on February 3, 2026. Contact us by email to michael@wildeslaw.com.
*This was posted on December 2, 2025, and may not be updated.