TEGUCIGALPA – The Secretary of Homeland Security Kirstjen M. Nielsen has determined that termination of the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designation for Honduras is required pursuant to the Immigration and Nationality Act.
To allow for an orderly transition, she has determined to delay the effective date of the termination for 18 months. The designation will terminate on January 5, 2020. This period will provide time for individuals with TPS to arrange for their departure or to seek an alternative lawful immigration status in the United States, if eligible. Honduran citizens in the United States who benefited from TPS may still receive other protections under our immigration system for which they are eligible.
The 18-month delay will also provide time for Honduras to prepare for the return and reintegration of its citizens.
In the upcoming months, we will work closely with the authorities of the Government of Honduras and its Embassy in Washington to coordinate the return process and support reintegration programs for Honduran citizens and their families. The U.S. Government is committed to support an orderly transition.
The United States will continue its support and efforts – through programs, projects, and assistance – to promote economic growth, the improvement of citizen security, the fight against corruption and impunity, among other issues, to provide better opportunities for Hondurans here in Honduras.
Honduras is a strong ally and partner for the United States of America and this decision does not reflect a change in our bilateral relationship. The U.S. people and its Government have a long history of friendship and support with the people and Government of Honduras, which will continue.
