Hidalgo, County – A federal appeals court has ruled that the U.S. government may proceed with plans to end Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for nationals of Honduras and Nicaragua, reversing a lower court order that had blocked the move.

The decision, issued by the Ninth Circuit Court of Appeals, allows the Department of Homeland Security to continue implementing previously announced terminations while legal challenges move forward.

TPS was originally granted to Honduras and Nicaragua in 1999 following Hurricane Mitch. The humanitarian program permits eligible nationals from designated countries to live and work legally in the United States when conditions in their home countries make return unsafe.

The Department of Homeland Security had scheduled the expiration of TPS for both countries in 2025, but that action was delayed due to ongoing litigation. The latest ruling removes that temporary barrier.

What It Means

If the termination ultimately stands:

• Work permits linked to TPS would expire.

• Individuals relying solely on TPS could lose lawful status.

• Deportation proceedings could begin for those without alternative immigration relief.

However, immigration enforcement does not occur automatically. Affected individuals would still have access to legal proceedings and the right to appear before an immigration judge.

Impact on Texas Communities

Texas is home to a significant number of TPS beneficiaries from Honduras and Nicaragua. Many have lived in the United States for decades, raising U.S. citizen children and contributing to local economies.

Immigration advocates urge TPS holders to seek professional legal advice and avoid misinformation circulating online.

The case is not necessarily final. Further appeals, including possible Supreme Court review, could still affect the timeline or outcome.

For now, the future of TPS for these communities remains uncertain, pending additional legal developments.