The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the termination of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for both Honduras and Nicaragua, citing improved country conditions in each nation.
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem made the announcement following a statutory review process and consultations with interagency partners. The terminations will take effect 60 days after the publication of the notices in the Federal Register.
Honduras was initially designated for TPS in 1999 following the devastation caused by Hurricane Mitch in 1998.
“Temporary Protected Status was designed to be just that—temporary,” said Secretary Kristi Noem. “It is clear that the Government of Honduras has taken all of the necessary steps to overcome the impacts of Hurricane Mitch, almost 27 years ago. Honduran citizens can safely return home, and DHS is here to help facilitate their voluntary return. Honduras has been a wonderful partner of the Trump Administration, helping us deliver on key promises to the American people. We look forward to continuing our work with them.”
The Secretary determined that the Government of Honduras has made significant progress in recovery efforts and that conditions have improved to the point where nationals can safely return. Under President Castro, Honduras has implemented programs to support returning citizens, including access to economic and food assistance, labor integration, and job training.
Nicaragua was also granted TPS in 1999 following a natural disaster.
“Temporary Protected Status was never meant to last a quarter of a century,” said a DHS Spokesperson. “The impacts of a natural disaster impacting Nicaragua in 1999 no longer exist. The environmental situation has improved enough that it is safe enough for Nicaraguan citizens to return home. This decision restores integrity in our immigration system and ensures that TPS remains temporary.”
Secretary Noem’s decision for Nicaragua was similarly based on a review conducted by U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services and in consultation with the Department of State. The review concluded that the statutory requirements for TPS designation are no longer met.
Nationals of both countries who are departing the United States are encouraged to use the U.S. Customs and Border Protection CBP Home app to report their departure. The DHS is offering support for voluntary return, including a complimentary plane ticket, a $1,000 exit bonus to assist with resettlement, and the potential for future legal immigration opportunities.
Together, these terminations will impact around 76,000 TPS recipients across both countries, according to Associated Press.
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