One embodiment provides a method for time protocol latency correction based on forward error correction (FEC) status. The method includes determining, by a network node element, if a forward error correction (FEC) decoding mode is enabled or disabled for a packet received from a link partner in communication with the network node element. The method also includes determining, by the network node element, a first time correction factor if an FEC decoding mode is enabled, the first time correction factor includes a time delay associated with the enabled FEC decoding mode and the first time correction factor is applied to a time stamp associated with the packet. The method also includes determining, by the network node element, a second time correction factor if an FEC decoding mode is disabled, the second time correction factor is applied to the time stamp associated with the packet.