In an era of frequent crises, Ukrainian refugees stranded abroad face uncertain futures. For those in the United States, Temporary Protected Status (TPS) provides a legal pathway to safety, ensuring protection of their security and dignity in these turbulent times.
TPS is a temporary immigration status granted to individuals who cannot safely return to their home countries due to ongoing armed conflict or environmental disasters. Those granted TPS receive:
- Legal permission to remain in the U.S. without fear of deportation during the designated period
- Eligibility to apply for work authorization (Employment Authorization Document or EAD)
- Option to request travel permission for international trips
- Protection from detention or removal based on immigration status
Application Requirements and Deadlines
TPS benefits are not permanent but tied to specific conditions and timeframes. Current recipients must re-register by March 18, 2025 to maintain protections through October 19, 2026. First-time applicants have until April 19, 2025 to file.
Eligibility requirements include:
- Ukrainian nationality or stateless status with habitual residence in Ukraine prior to U.S. arrival
- Continuous residence in the U.S. since August 16, 2023
- No disqualifying international travel after October 20, 2023
Certain criminal convictions may render applicants ineligible. Notably, TPS applicants are exempt from public charge considerations and may qualify for government assistance programs.
Work Authorization Details
The EAD (Form I-765) serves as proof of legal employment eligibility. For those who re-register by March 18, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security will automatically extend work authorization through April 19, 2026. Existing EADs with A12 or C19 categories remain valid until April 2, 2026 if their expiration dates are either April 19, 2025 or October 19, 2023.
Travel Considerations
TPS holders may apply for advance parole (travel authorization), though consulting an immigration attorney before international travel is strongly advised to ensure compliance with regulations.
Preparing for Future Uncertainty
As DHS continually evaluates country conditions, beneficiaries should prepare for potential policy changes. If Ukrainian TPS designation expires, individuals will revert to their prior immigration status. Recommended precautions include:
- Consulting immigration attorneys about alternative legal status options
- Exploring eligibility for asylum, permanent residency, or other immigration pathways
- Staying informed about policy updates to safeguard rights
- Developing contingency plans for potential status changes