The Trump administration announced that Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haitian migrants living in the United States will end on February 3, 2026, affecting approximately 353,000 individuals. TPS allows eligible migrants to live and work legally in the U.S. without fear of deportation while conditions in their home country remain unsafe.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem determined that Haiti no longer meets the statutory requirements for the program. In a federal register notice, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) emphasized that allowing Haitian nationals to remain temporarily in the United States is inconsistent with U.S. national interests. The notice follows earlier attempts to terminate TPS that were delayed by federal court rulings.
DHS is encouraging TPS holders to depart voluntarily, offering a $1,000 exit bonus and complimentary plane tickets. Migrants can report their departure using the U.S. Customs and Border Protection CBP Home mobile application. DHS noted that those without another lawful means of staying in the country will face potential detention or removal after the TPS expiration.
Haiti was first granted TPS in 2010 following a devastating earthquake. The program has been repeatedly extended or redesignated under successive administrations to address persistent crises, including political instability, gang violence, and economic challenges. The Biden administration extended the protections in 2024, citing “simultaneous economic, security, political, and health crises” in Haiti that threatened the safety of returning migrants.
Despite ongoing humanitarian concerns, DHS pointed to factors including security risks, migration pressures, and the agency’s limited ability to monitor entrants from Haiti. The federal notice highlighted that some TPS beneficiaries had been involved in investigations for fraud, public safety, and national security issues. Officials also cited the country’s high visa overstay rates and the challenges posed by Haitian gang activity as influencing the decision.
DHS emphasized that employment authorization under TPS will remain valid through February 3, 2026, and information regarding the transition will be available at local USCIS offices and through the agency’s website.
