The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the conclusion of Temporary Protected Status for nationals of Montserrat and an extension of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) until February 27, 2005. This decision will affect about 292 nationals who currently receive benefits under this designation.

Tom Ridge, Secretary of DHS reviewed conditions in Montserrat, consulted with the proper Government agencies, and has determined that conditions in this country no longer support the TPS description.

After February 27, 2005, former TPS recipients return to the same immigration status they had before registering for TPS, or to any other status they may have acquired during TPS registration. If an individual did not have lawful status before receiving TPS benefits, he or she will go back to unlawful status and will be expected to depart the United States on or before February 27, 2005. Those failing to comply with this condition will be subject to deportation. All TPS-related work permits expire on February 27, 2005 and will not be renewed.

Other pending forms of applications for immigration relief or protection might not be affected by the conclusion of the TPS designation for nationals of Montserrat. Individuals who have not been granted any other immigration status or protection and do not have any applications pending will accrue time of unlawful presence in the United States and may be banned from admittance to the U.S. for a specified length of time.

For additional information, please call the USCIS National Customer Service Center at 1-800-375-5283, or visit the USCIS web site at http://www.uscis.gov.