Biden Extends DED Program for Hong Kong Residents in US for 24 Months Until 2027

Jan 16, 2025, 02:55 AM

Outgoing U.S. President Joe Biden has extended the Deferred Enforced Departure (DED) program for Hong Kong residents in the United States for an additional 24 months, until February 5, 2027. The extension, announced just weeks before the program's scheduled expiration, aims to provide continued protection for Hong Kongers who have fled to the U.S. amid concerns over diminishing rights and freedoms in Hong Kong due to actions by the Chinese government. The program, first introduced in August 2021, allows eligible Hong Kong residents to remain and work in the U.S. despite the expiration of their visas. The extension reflects the U.S.'s commitment to supporting the human rights and fundamental freedoms of Hong Kong residents, as stated by Biden in his directive to extend and expand the DED program.