HR9494: A Real Path to a Green Card for Haitians

On June 25, 2026, Rep. Frederica Wilson (D-FL) introduced a bill that could change everything for Haitian nationals living in the United States. The Haitian Refugee Immigration Fairness Act of 2026 (HR9494) would create a direct path to lawful permanent residence — a green card — for certain Haitian nationals. No lottery. No sponsorship requirement.

What the Bill Would Do

HR9494 would require the Secretary of Homeland Security to adjust qualifying Haitian nationals to permanent resident status if they apply within 3 years of the bill becoming law and are admissible to the United States for permanent residence.

Critically, the bill waives several grounds of inadmissibility that normally block people from getting green cards: public charge, labor certification, illegal entry, documentation requirements, and foreign residence.

Who Would NOT Qualify

The bill excludes people convicted of an aggravated felony, two or more crimes involving moral turpitude (excluding purely political offenses), or those who participated in persecution of any person.

Who's Behind It

Rep. Frederica Wilson introduced the bill with 11 cosponsors, including Rep. Sheila Cherfilus-McCormick (D-FL), the only Haitian-American member of Congress.

Where It Stands

The bill has been referred to the House Committee on the Judiciary. It needs to pass committee, then the full House, then the Senate. This is the most ambitious Haiti immigration bill introduced this Congress.

What You Can Do

Call your Representative and ask them to cosponsor HR9494. Find your Representative at house.gov/representatives/find-your-representative.