Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) Status Explained

What is DED?

DED, or Deferred Enforced Departure, is a discretionary protection status that shields its recipients from deportation. Only the president can extend or rescind DED protections. Those who are granted DED are temporarily protected from deportation and may obtain work permits. DED is not a pathway to permanent residency or US citizenship.

How does someone get DED?

Eligibility is dependent on the criteria set forth for each DED directive. To qualify for DED, the person must already be residing in the US and be a citizen of (or have no citizenship and last resided in) the country designated for DED.

There is no application process for DED. It is automatically granted until it lapses or is terminated.

Who has DED?

Currently, only Liberia and Hong Kong have been designated for DED. Recently, Lebanon, Venezuela, and Palestinians were also protected by DED, however their designations expired.