President Extends Hong Kong Residents' Get-Out-of-Deportation-Free Card
Published Date: 1/17/2025
Presidential Document
Summary
The U.S. is extending and expanding protection for certain Hong Kong residents living here by delaying their forced return to Hong Kong. This helps people affected by China’s crackdown on freedoms and democracy in Hong Kong. The new protections apply to more people and last beyond February 5, 2025, giving them more time and peace of mind while staying in the U.S.
Analyzed Economic Effects
5 provisions identified: 4 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
24‑Month Deferred Enforced Departure
If you are a Hong Kong resident present in the United States on January 15, 2025, your removal is deferred for 24 months (through January 15, 2027), regardless of your country of birth, unless you fall into one of the listed exceptions.
Who Is Excluded From the DED
Certain people are excluded from the 24‑month DED: those who voluntarily returned to Hong Kong or the PRC after January 15, 2025; those who have not continuously resided in the U.S. since that date; people inadmissible under INA section 212(a)(3) (8 U.S.C. 1182(a)(3)) or deportable under INA section 237(a)(4) (8 U.S.C. 1227(a)(4)); anyone convicted of any felony or two or more misdemeanors in the U.S. or who meet criteria in INA 208(b)(2)(A) (8 U.S.C. 1158(b)(2)(A)); persons subject to extradition; and persons whose presence is found by DHS or the Secretary of State to be not in the U.S. interest, a danger to public safety, or likely to cause serious adverse foreign policy consequences.
Work Authorization Extended for DED Recipients
The Secretary of Homeland Security is directed to authorize employment for noncitizens whose removal is deferred under this memorandum for the duration of the deferral. For individuals with current employment authorization under prior DED grants for certain Hong Kong residents, employment authorization is to be extended through February 5, 2027.
Possible Relief for F‑1 Hong Kong Students
The Secretary of Homeland Security is directed to consider suspending regulatory requirements with respect to F‑1 nonimmigrant students who are Hong Kong residents, as the Secretary determines appropriate.
Prompt Issuance of Documents for DED Individuals
The Secretary of Homeland Security shall provide for the prompt issuance of new or replacement documents in appropriate cases for individuals whose removal is deferred under this memorandum.
Personalized for You
How does this regulation affect your finances?
Personalize government policy and PRIA will tell you what this federal register document means for your household, plus every other regulation we track. PRIA reads each provision against your financial profile to show you exactly what matters to your wallet.
Key Dates
Related Federal Register Documents
2026-19417, Restoring American Saltwater Angling and Recreation
This order boosts saltwater fishing and recreation by cutting red tape and supporting coastal communities, anglers, and charter businesses. It calls for better data and teamwork between federal agencies and states to keep fishing fun and thriving. Changes start rolling out within 180 days, aiming to grow jobs and the outdoor economy without hurting access or the environment.
2026-19416, Reinvigorating America's Hunting Heritage
This order makes it easier for hunters to access federal lands and enjoy America’s great outdoors again. It cuts red tape, opens new hunting spots like Castle Mountains National Monument, and supports hunter education to keep wildlife healthy. Hunters, landowners, and outdoor lovers will see these changes roll out quickly, with some actions starting within 90 days and boosting conservation efforts nationwide.
2026-19335, Providing Meaningful Water Quality Improvements Through Collaboration and Oversight of Federal Support
This new order helps states and local governments work better together to improve water quality in the Chesapeake Bay without unfairly charging residents and small businesses extra fees. It focuses on clear rules and smart spending to keep the Bay healthy while supporting local economies. Starting now, federal support will be more closely watched to make sure every dollar helps clean water and communities thrive.
2026-19336, Restoring Reciprocity in Government Procurement
The U.S. government is fighting back against Canada’s 'Buy Canadian' rules that block American companies from Canadian government contracts. Starting now, U.S. agencies will look for Canadian-made products in federal buying and try to replace them with American alternatives. This move affects billions in government spending and aims to level the playing field for U.S. businesses.
2026-19333, Constitution Day, Citizenship Day, and Constitution Week, 2026
In 2026, we celebrate Constitution Day, Citizenship Day, and Constitution Week to honor the 239th anniversary of the U.S. Constitution. This proclamation reminds all Americans of the freedoms and responsibilities that come with being part of this great nation. No changes or costs are involved—just a proud moment to reflect on our shared values and history.
2026-19334, National POW/MIA Recognition Day, 2026
On National POW/MIA Recognition Day 2026, we honor the brave American service members who were prisoners of war or are still missing. The government proudly flies the POW/MIA flag and supports efforts to find and identify missing heroes, like the recent milestone of 800 Korean War identifications. This day reminds us all to never forget their sacrifice and keep working until every last hero comes home.
Previous / Next Documents
Previous: 2025-01465, Religious Freedom Day, 2025
Religious Freedom Day 2025 celebrates every American’s right to practice their faith safely and freely. The President highlights efforts to fight rising hate crimes like antisemitism and Islamophobia, including historic funding boosts for security at places of worship. These actions protect all faith communities now and in the future, both in the U.S. and around the world.
Next: 2025-01467, Providing for the Appointment of Alumni of AmeriCorps to the Competitive Service
AmeriCorps alumni who’ve completed at least 1,700 hours of service can now be hired for federal jobs without competing in the usual hiring process. This change helps the government tap into a skilled, service-minded workforce faster and easier, starting right after this order in January 2025. It’s a win-win: AmeriCorps members get more job opportunities, and the government gains talented employees without extra costs.