Strong Ties

 Why Immigrants With Strong Ties to the US Should Be Allowed to Stay

This article is part of the Moving Forward on Immigration series that explores the future of immigration in the aftermath of the 2020 presidential election. 

The Biden administration will soon lead a vibrant nation of immigrants—a nation that includes millions of noncitizens with deep ties to the United States who are at risk of deportation.

This important and diverse population includes immigrants who have lived in the United States for many years, have close family in this country, and make meaningful contributions to their communities, the workforce, and the economy.

Until we have a legislative solution, the administration must use all available tools to provide stability and protection for long-residing immigrants and their families.

Protect People with Temporary Protected Status

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a legal status available to people from certain designated countries suffering from natural disasters, armed conflict, or other extraordinary circumstances. People living in the United States at the time their country is designated for TPS may apply for protection, which includes temporary permission to stay and work authorization.

The Biden administration should issue new designations for those countries that the Trump administration sought to terminate—El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Nepal, Nicaragua, and Sudan.

While court orders have delayed the termination of TPS for these countries, TPS holders will be in legal limbo unless the new administration acts.