Temporary Protected Status extended for Honduras, Nicaragua

The Department of Homeland Security is extending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nationals of Honduras and Nicaragua for an additional 18 months, through Jan. 5, 2018.

Key dates:

• The re-registration period runs from May 16 through July 15, 2016 for current TPS holders from the two countries.
• The 18-month extension of TPS will be effective July 15, 2016 through Jan. 5, 2018.
• Individuals who timely re-register and apply for work authorization will receive a new Employment Authorization Document (EAD) with an expiration date of Jan. 5, 2018.
• EADs of current TPS holders with a July 5, 2016 expiration date are automatically extended for six months, making them valid through Jan. 5, 2017. This is to prevent expiration of existing EADs before the re-registrant receives a new EAD.

Background: Honduras and Nicaragua were originally designated for TPS Jan. 5, 1999 following environmental disasters caused by Hurricane Mitch in October 1998. The Secretary of Homeland Security regularly reviews TPS countries and extends the status if the conditions prevent nationals from returning safely to their country. Climate fluctuations, flooding, landslides, and a prolonged regional drought in both countries, and earthquakes and volcanic activity in Nicaragua, have prevented environmental recovery efforts in recent months, according to the Federal Register notices published today.

Those who have not yet filed for TPS may be eligible if they meet all the criteria as late initial filers. Additional information is available on the USCIS TPS page.

BAL Analysis: Applicants are encouraged to re-register immediately and must do so within 60 days. Employers should be aware of the automatic extension of EADs.

This alert has been provided by the BAL U.S. Practice group. For additional information, please contact BerryApplemanLeiden@bal.com.

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