Key Takeaways
• TPS for Honduras and Nicaragua ends September 8, 2025, after a 60-day transition period starting July 8, 2025.
• Approximately 72,000 Hondurans and 4,000 Nicaraguans are affected, losing deportation protection and work authorization afterward.
• A lawsuit challenges DHS’s decision claiming procedural violations, potentially delaying or reversing TPS termination.
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has officially announced the end of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Honduras 🇭🇳 and Nicaragua 🇳🇮, impacting tens of thousands of immigrants who have lived in the United States 🇺🇸 for decades. The decision, published on July 8, 2025, sets a clear deadline: TPS protections for both countries will expire at 11:59 p.m. local time on September 8, 2025. This move follows a 60-day transition period, during which affected individuals can legally remain and work in the country. The change marks a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy and leaves many families and communities facing an uncertain future.
Who Is Affected and What Happens Next?
The end of TPS for Honduras and Nicaragua directly affects about 72,000 Hondurans (including roughly 21,000 who have already become lawful permanent residents) and 4,000 Nicaraguans. These individuals have lived in the United States 🇺🇸 since at least 1999, when TPS was first granted after Hurricane Mitch devastated their home countries. For many, the United States 🇺🇸 is the only home they have known for over 25 years.
During the 60-day transition period, which began on July 8, 2025, TPS holders from both countries retain their legal status and work authorization. After September 8, 2025, unless they have another form of legal status, they will lose their protection from deportation and their right to work. This change will have a deep impact on families, employers, and communities across the country.
Why Did DHS End TPS for Honduras and Nicaragua?
DHS Secretary Kristi Noem explained that the decision was based on a review of current conditions in Honduras and Nicaragua. According to Secretary Noem, both countries have recovered enough from the disasters that led to their original TPS designations, and no longer meet the requirements for continued protection. She emphasized that TPS is meant to be a temporary solution, not a permanent immigration status.
However, this explanation has sparked strong reactions from immigrant advocates, legal experts, and some lawmakers. Many argue that conditions in Honduras and Nicaragua remain dangerous and unstable, and that ending TPS now puts thousands at risk.
Legal Challenge and Ongoing Lawsuit
On the same day the termination was announced, the National TPS Alliance and several individuals filed a lawsuit challenging the decision. They claim that DHS violated the Administrative Procedure Act (APA), which requires federal agencies to follow fair procedures and consider all relevant facts. The lawsuit argues that DHS ignored ongoing problems in Honduras and Nicaragua and made the decision for political reasons.
The outcome of this lawsuit could have major consequences. If the court agrees with the plaintiffs, the termination could be delayed or even reversed. Legal experts say this case could also set a precedent for how future TPS terminations are handled and how much power the executive branch has under the APA.
Background: How Did We Get Here?
TPS for Honduras and Nicaragua was first granted in 1999 after Hurricane Mitch caused widespread destruction. Over the years, the U.S. government renewed TPS several times due to ongoing instability and natural disasters in both countries.
During President Trump’s first term, his administration tried to end TPS for several countries, including Honduras and Nicaragua. Those efforts were blocked by court orders. When President Biden took office, his administration extended TPS for both countries through July 5, 2025. Now, under the current Trump administration, DHS has moved forward with the termination.
What Does the Transition Period Mean for TPS Holders?
From July 8, 2025, until September 8, 2025, TPS holders from Honduras and Nicaragua can continue to live and work in the United States 🇺🇸. Their Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) remain valid during this time. This gives individuals a short window to prepare for the end of their legal status.
Key Points for TPS Holders:
- Legal Status and Work Authorization: Remain valid until September 8, 2025.
- No More Re-registration: The last re-registration period ended on July 5, 2025. No further re-registration is possible.
- No Automatic Path to Permanent Residency: TPS does not lead to a green card or any other permanent immigration status by itself.
What Happens After September 8, 2025?
After the deadline, TPS holders from Honduras and Nicaragua who do not have another legal status will lose their protection from deportation and their right to work. They will become undocumented and may face removal from the United States 🇺🇸.
Options for Affected Individuals:
- Seek Other Immigration Relief: Some may qualify for asylum, family-based petitions, or other forms of relief. It is important to consult with an immigration attorney as soon as possible.
- Monitor Legal Developments: The ongoing lawsuit could change the timeline or outcome, so staying informed is critical.
- Prepare Documentation: Keep records of residence, employment, and family ties in the United States 🇺🇸 in case they are needed for legal proceedings.
- Contact Advocacy Groups: Organizations like the National TPS Alliance can provide support, updates, and resources.
How Did TPS Holders Apply and Maintain Status?
TPS holders from Honduras and Nicaragua have followed a strict process to maintain their status over the years. They filed Form I-821 (Application for Temporary Protected Status) and, if they wanted to work, Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization). These forms could be submitted online or by mail. For more information about these forms, visit the official USCIS TPS page.
No Further Re-registration Allowed
With the termination now official, there will be no more opportunities to re-register for TPS. The last re-registration period ran from November 6, 2023, through July 5, 2025. Anyone who did not re-register during that time is no longer protected by TPS.
Stakeholder Reactions: Supporters and Opponents
Supporters of the Termination:
Some officials and policy advocates argue that TPS was always meant to be temporary. They believe that conditions in Honduras and Nicaragua have improved enough to end the program. They also point out that extending TPS indefinitely goes beyond the original intent of the law.
Opponents of the Termination:
Many immigrant rights groups, legal advocates, and lawmakers strongly oppose the decision. They argue that TPS holders have built lives, families, and careers in the United States 🇺🇸. Forcing them to leave would cause family separations, disrupt businesses, and create hardship for communities. Democratic Senator Catherine Cortez Masto has spoken out against the termination, warning of the negative effects on families and the economy.
Legal advocates also argue that the decision ignores ongoing risks in Honduras and Nicaragua, including violence, poverty, and political instability. They believe that ending TPS now is both unfair and unsafe.
Economic and Social Impact
The end of TPS for Honduras and Nicaragua will have wide-reaching effects. Many TPS holders have U.S. citizen children, own homes, and work in essential industries such as healthcare, construction, and hospitality. Employers may lose experienced workers, and families could be separated if parents are forced to leave while their children remain.
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the loss of TPS protections could also lead to increased fear and uncertainty in immigrant communities, making it harder for people to seek help or report crimes.
Legal and Legislative Advocacy
The National TPS Alliance and other advocacy groups are not giving up. They are pushing for legislative solutions, such as a path to permanent residency for long-term TPS holders. They are also working to raise awareness about the contributions of TPS holders and the risks they face if forced to return to their countries of origin.
What Should TPS Holders Do Now?
If you are a TPS holder from Honduras or Nicaragua, here are some important steps to take:
- Check Your Status: Make sure your TPS and EAD are valid through September 8, 2025.
- Consult an Immigration Attorney: Find out if you qualify for another form of legal status, such as asylum or a family-based petition.
- Stay Informed: Follow updates on the ongoing lawsuit and any changes in policy.
- Gather Documentation: Collect proof of your residence, work history, and family ties in the United States 🇺🇸.
- Reach Out for Support: Contact organizations like the National TPS Alliance or local immigrant rights groups for help and information.
Official Resources
For the most up-to-date information on TPS and related forms, visit the USCIS Temporary Protected Status page. You can also review the official Federal Register notices for Honduras and Nicaragua for detailed legal information.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for TPS Holders?
The future for TPS holders from Honduras and Nicaragua remains uncertain. The outcome of the current lawsuit could change the timeline or even reverse the termination. At the same time, advocacy groups are working to convince Congress to create a permanent solution for long-term TPS holders.
If the termination stands, tens of thousands of people will face the risk of deportation after September 8, 2025. Many will be forced to make difficult choices about their families, jobs, and futures.
Key Takeaways for TPS Holders and Their Families
- TPS for Honduras and Nicaragua ends on September 8, 2025.
- A 60-day transition period is in effect until that date.
- After the deadline, those without another legal status will lose protection from deportation and work authorization.
- Legal challenges and advocacy efforts are ongoing, and the situation could change.
- Affected individuals should seek legal advice, stay informed, and prepare for possible changes.
Conclusion
The end of TPS for Honduras and Nicaragua marks a turning point for thousands of immigrants who have called the United States 🇺🇸 home for over two decades. As the September 8, 2025 deadline approaches, families, employers, and communities are bracing for the impact. While legal and legislative battles continue, TPS holders must act quickly to explore their options and protect their futures. For official updates and resources, always refer to the USCIS TPS page and trusted advocacy organizations.
Learn Today
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) → A temporary immigration status given to nationals from countries with unsafe conditions preventing return.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD) → A permit allowing TPS holders to legally work in the United States during their status.
Administrative Procedure Act (APA) → A U.S. law ensuring federal agencies follow fair processes and consider relevant facts before decisions.
Form I-821 → The official application form used to request or renew Temporary Protected Status with USCIS.
Deportation → Legal removal of a non-citizen from the United States for violating immigration laws or losing status.
This Article in a Nutshell
The Department of Homeland Security ends TPS for Honduras and Nicaragua on September 8, 2025. Affected immigrants have a 60-day transition to legal stay and work. Lawsuits challenge the termination amid concerns about ongoing instability. Immigrant advocates urge holders to seek legal help and prepare for uncertain futures.
— By VisaVerge.com
