U.S. ICE to Increase Enforcement as Haitian TPS Expiration Takes Effect

More than 300,000 Haitians who have lived in the United States under Temporary Protected Status (TPS) will lose that protection on Monday, the latest deadline set by a court order that also affects thousands of Syrians. The expiration follows a Supreme Court decision that cleared the way for the administration to terminate TPS for Haiti and Syria, while lower-court orders delayed the final termination until July 27.

A source familiar with Immigration and Customs Enforcement said the agency is planning to increase operations targeting Haitian TPS holders, though the plans could be adjusted if further court rulings arise. Large Haitian communities, such as those in Florida and Springfield, Ohio, are expected to feel the immediate impact of any enforcement actions.

TPS, created under the 1952 Immigration and Nationality Act, grants eligible migrants work authorization and protection from removal when their home country is deemed unsafe due to conflict, disaster, or other extraordinary conditions. Holders who lack another legal status may become subject to deportation after the program ends.

A Department of Homeland Security spokesperson said, "it's closing time" for TPS holders, adding that the agency conducts law-enforcement activities nationwide to keep Americans safe and does not discuss ongoing or future operations. The spokesperson explained, "What we would say now is it's closing time, which means you don't have to go home, but you can't stay here."

Last week, DHS General Counsel James Percival posted on X that individuals with expiring TPS have "one last opportunity" to accept a $2,600 payment and a free flight home, urging them to take advantage of the offer.