The U.S. government has canceled an extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for over 500,000 Haitian migrants.
The decision was announced on Thursday by the Trump administration, reversing a previous extension granted by former President Joe Biden.
TPS allows foreign nationals to stay in the U.S. if returning home is unsafe due to war, natural disasters, or other severe conditions.
Biden had extended the status for Haitians until February 2026, but the new decision sets the expiration date for August 3, 2025.
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stated that the move aligns with Trump’s commitment to restoring TPS as a temporary measure and reducing policies that encourage illegal immigration.
The number of Haitians under TPS has grown significantly, rising from 57,000 in 2011 to over 520,000 in 2024.
Critics argued that ending the program will disrupt lives and affect communities where these migrants work and contribute.
Haiti continues to struggle with political instability and gang violence.
The country has faced worsening security issues despite efforts by its government and international support.
According to the UN, over 5,600 people were killed by gang violence in Haiti in 2024.