HAITI TPS [English]
The United States government announced in December 2022 that it is extending and redesignating Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Haiti. This flyer contains information about that announcement and how to apply for TPS in Maine.
What is TPS?
TPS is a temporary immigration status that gives people protection from deportation for as long as their TPS status remains valid. They are also eligible for a work permit (Employment Authorization Document or EAD), and can apply for permission to travel outside of the U.S. The new designation of Haiti TPS is for 18 months, from February 4, 2023, to August 3, 2024. After that time, the U.S. government may again extend TPS for Haiti, or may choose to end it.
Who is Covered by this Haiti TPS Update?
Current Haitian TPS holders:
Current Haitian TPS holders under the most recent Haiti TPS designation who were approved prior to January 26, 2023, must re-register for TPS between January 26, 2023, and March 27, 2023. Being under the most recent Haiti TPS designation means you newly applied for TPS between August 3, 2021, and February 3, 2023.
Haitian TPS holders who still have pending TPS applications as of January 26, 2023, do not need to reregister. If approved, TPS will be granted through August 3, 2024.
Work permits for current Haitian TPS holders are automatically extended through February 3, 2024. To receive work authorization through August 3, 2024, current TPS holders must apply for a new work permit. However, Haitian TPS holders who still have pending work permit applications as of January 26, 2023, do not need to apply again. If approved, work authorization will be granted through August 3, 2024.
Haitian nationals residing in the United States since November 6, 2022:
Haitian nationals who have been continuously residing in the United States since November 6, 2022, and meet other criteria can apply for TPS and a work permit.
Eligible Haitian nationals must apply between January 26, 2023, and August 3, 2024.
A note for current TPS holders covered by the Ramos litigation:
TPS holders covered by the Ramos litigation are not required to take any action at this time. This includes current TPS holders who have had TPS since before August 3, 2021.
However, ILAP recommends that these TPS holders newly register for TPS under this announcement.
What Do I Need to Re-register or to Apply for Haiti TPS?
To re-register or to apply for Haiti TPS, you will need certain documents, including:
A Haitian passport, birth certificate, or national ID;
Proof of entry into the U.S. such as a visa, passport stamp, I-94, or NTA;
Documents showing you have been in the U.S. since November 6, 2022, such as medical records, benefits notices, leases, pay stubs, or school records;
Records for any arrests, charges, and criminal court cases you may have in the U.S. or anywhere else in the world;
Copies of any previous immigration applications you may have filed; and,
Any other immigration documents you have received during your time in the U.S.
How Do I Request Assistance with my TPS from ILAP?
If you live in Maine and want to re-register or apply for Haiti TPS, please collect the documents listed above, then visit www.ilapmaine.org/get-legal-help for information on how to schedule an intake appointment.
What Else Do I Need to Know?
Beware of fraud and people who try to trick immigrants out of their money by pretending they can help with immigration cases. Learn more about how to protect yourself here: https://ilapmaine.org/protect.