Note: On May 19, 2011, DHS extended and redesignated Haiti for TPS, until January 22, 2013.
Also see:
- NAFSA's page: Haiti Earthquake: Resources For International Student And Scholar Advisers
- NAFSA's resources on using an immigration lawyer, since advising on TPS should be done by experienced immigration counsel
On January 21, 2010, DHS designated Haiti for temporary protected status (TPS) for a period of 18 months, until July 22, 2011. In order to apply for TPS, an individual must meet the following criteria:
- Be a Haitian national (or an alien having no nationality who last habitually resided in Haiti)
- Have continuously resided in the United States since January 12, 2010, and remain in continual physical presence in the United States from January 21, 2010
- Apply for TPS during the 180-day registration period, which is January 21, 2010 to January 18, 2011 (extended by this Federal Register Notice; Also see the May 19, 2011 extension and redesignation notice).
The Federal Register notice also sets forth the procedures for applying for TPS and TPS-related benefits such as employment authorization. Individuals seeking legal advice on whether they qualify for TPS, and on the effect that TPS might have on their current immigration status, should be referred to experienced immigration counsel.