DHS Reverses Previous Administration’s Decision to End TPS for El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, and Nicaragua

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) made an announcement regarding Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, and Nicaragua. The Biden administration has granted a reprieve to 337,000 immigrants, allowing them to stay in the U.S. legally and continue working.

The prior Trump terminations of TPS for these countries have been rescinded. Thus, an 18-month extension of TPS has been granted! This decision aligns with ongoing litigation challenging the now-rescinded terminations.

This reflects DHS’s commitment to fairness and compassion. Secretary of Homeland Security Alejandro N. Mayorkas stated;

“Through the extension of Temporary Protected Status, we can offer continued safety and protection to current beneficiaries who are nationals of El Salvador, Honduras, Nepal, and Nicaragua. This temporary form of humanitarian relief supports those affected by environmental disasters, allowing them to remain in the United States.” 

Federal Register notices will soon be published, showing the eligibility criteria, timelines, and procedures for current beneficiaries to re-register. Guidelines on how to renew their Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) will also be highlighted.

Current TPS recipients under these four designations can re-register and maintain their Temporary Protected Status throughout the 18-month extension. 

Hence, individuals who arrived in the United States after the designated continuous residence dates are not eligible for TPS. Undoubtedly, they may be subject to removal if they lack legal authorization. Here are the details for each country’s extension and re-registration period:

El Salvador:

TPS extended from Sept. 10, 2023, to March 9, 2025.

Re-registration period: July 12, 2023, to Sept. 10, 2023.

Honduras:

TPS extended from Jan. 6, 2024, to July 5, 2025.

Re-registration period: Nov. 6, 2023, to Jan. 5, 2024.

Nepal:

TPS extended from Dec. 25, 2023, to June 24, 2025.

Re-registration period: Oct. 24, 2023, to Dec. 23, 2023.

Nicaragua:

TPS extended from Jan. 6, 2024, to July 5, 2025.

Re-registration period: Nov. 6, 2023, to Jan. 5, 2024.