Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is back in the national conversation as several US lawmakers call for special protections for Jamaicans living in the United States after Hurricane Melissa. The storm caused major damage across Jamaica, leaving many residents without homes, water, electricity, or access to basic services. With recovery expected to take a long time, members of Congress are asking the federal government to give Jamaican nationals in the US a temporary way to stay legally while their country rebuilds.
What TPS Means
Temporary Protected Status is a program created by the US government to allow people from certain countries to stay in the United States when conditions at home are unsafe. This may be because of a natural disaster, armed conflict, or other major conditions that make it dangerous to return.
A TPS designation allows eligible nationals from that country to stay in the US for a limited time. They can apply for work permits, and they are protected from deportation as long as the TPS status remains in place. TPS does not provide permanent residency or citizenship, and it does not guarantee long-term immigration status. It is strictly a temporary humanitarian protection.
To qualify, individuals must already be in the United States by a date set by the government and must meet the other requirements listed by the Department of Homeland Security.
Why Jamaica Is Being Considered for TPS
Hurricane Melissa caused extensive damage across Jamaica. Tens of thousands of residents were displaced, and key services were disrupted. Many homes, roads, and public systems were damaged or destroyed. These impacts have made it difficult for people to live safely in some parts of the island.
US lawmakers argue that it is not safe to require Jamaican nationals now living in the United States to return home during this recovery period. They point to the scale of the storm’s impact and the pressure on local services as reasons Jamaica meets the conditions for TPS consideration.
The request from lawmakers also notes the long ties between the United States and Jamaica, including cultural, economic, and family connections shared between the two countries.
US Leaders Calling for TPS for Jamaicans
At the center of this effort is Caribbean-American Democratic U.S. Rep. Yvette D. Clarke, who led 43 of her congressional colleagues in sending a formal letter to the Department of Homeland Security on Nov. 4. Clarke—the daughter of Jamaican immigrants who represents New York’s 9th Congressional District in Brooklyn—has long advocated for immigrant rights and Caribbean issues. She also chairs the Congressional Black Caucus (CBC), adding significant national influence to the request.
Her letter urges the federal government to issue an immediate TPS designation for Jamaica following the catastrophic impact of Hurricane Melissa. Clarke and her colleagues argue that the scale of destruction on the island makes it unsafe and unreasonable to expect Jamaican nationals currently in the United States to return home at this time.
In addition to Rep. Clarke, dozens of other congressional leaders have expressed support. They highlight Jamaica’s expected long recovery period and note that many communities are still struggling with the aftermath of the storm.
Community advocates have also joined the push, pointing out that TPS has helped protect immigrants from other countries during major disasters. They say that extending similar protections to Jamaicans would provide much-needed stability for families already facing uncertainty.
How TPS Decisions Are Made
The Secretary of Homeland Security has the authority to designate a country for TPS. Before a final decision is made, the Secretary consults with other government agencies to review conditions in the affected country and determine whether nationals can return home safely.
If a country receives TPS, the designation is typically set for 6, 12, or 18 months. Before it expires, the government reviews conditions again to decide whether to extend or end the designation.
A TPS designation does not automatically apply to all nationals from that country. Those who qualify must apply, register, pass background checks, and pay required fees. They must also renew their TPS if the designation is extended.
Why This Call Matters to Jamaicans in the US
A TPS designation for Jamaica would allow eligible Jamaicans already in the US to stay legally for a set period while the island recovers. They would be able to apply for work permits and would have protection from deportation.
Many Jamaican communities in the United States include individuals who have lived, worked, and raised families here. Lawmakers supporting TPS—led by Rep. Clarke—say the protection would help keep families stable while preventing further strain on Jamaica’s recovery efforts.
While the final decision rests with the Department of Homeland Security, the broad support from congressional leaders, community advocates, and elected officials of Jamaican heritage has brought national attention to the issue.
What Happens Next
The Department of Homeland Security will review the request and assess conditions in Jamaica following Hurricane Melissa. The agency will then decide whether to grant TPS to Jamaican nationals. If approved, the government will release instructions on who qualifies and how to apply.
For now, the request reflects growing concern in Washington about the storm’s long-term impact and the need to protect affected Jamaicans both on the island and in the United States.
Photo – Deposit Photos
