For those living in the United States, have you considered what would happen if your home country became unstable or dangerous? The Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) policy for Liberia was established precisely for such circumstances. This temporary protection measure provides legal sanctuary for individuals who cannot safely return to their country of origin, allowing them to remain in the U.S. and integrate into society.

Eligibility Requirements for DED Protection

To qualify for DED status, individuals must meet the following criteria:

  • You must be a Liberian national or a stateless person who formerly habitually resided in Liberia
  • You must have continuously resided in the United States since May 20, 2017
  • Any travel outside the U.S. after May 20, 2017, does not affect eligibility

Important Note: Eligible Liberians do not need to apply for DED. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) automatically applies this protection to qualifying individuals.

Employment Authorization Under DED

Those granted DED status may apply for work authorization through an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). To obtain this work permit, applicants must complete Form I-765, available on the USCIS website. The process typically requires submitting supporting documentation and paying applicable fees.

In a significant move to support DED recipients, USCIS has automatically extended existing EADs with expiration dates on:

  • March 30, 2020
  • January 10, 2021
  • June 30, 2022
  • June 30, ​​2024

These extensions remain valid until June 30, 2026, providing continued work authorization for eligible individuals.

Understanding the Temporary Nature of DED

DED is a temporary measure that does not provide a path to permanent residency or citizenship. When the designation expires, beneficiaries will revert to their previous immigration status. Those who lacked legal status before receiving DED may face potential undocumented status when the protection ends.

Experts strongly recommend that DED recipients explore other immigration options before their protected status expires. Maintaining legal status helps avoid potential detention or deportation proceedings.

For Liberians currently protected under DED, staying informed about your rights and exploring all available options is crucial for securing your future in the United States.