More immigration protections for Ukrainians in the U.S.

What are the protections?

The Biden administration will be extending Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to Ukrainian nationals from those who have been in the United States since March 1st, 2022 to Ukrainians who have been in the United States since April 11th, 2022. This date change is estimated to allow double the number of Ukrainians into the United States (nearly 60,000 Ukraine nationals).

Under TPS, Ukrainians in the United States will be able to live in the U.S. without the threat of deportation. Furthermore, immigrants under TPS status will be eligible to apply for Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) which will allow them to work legally whilst in the United States.

In addition, the United States government hopes to improve the processing times for Ukrainian nationals to be reunited with family members in the United States by ‘easing bureaucratic hurdles’, increasing the approvals on medical physicians who can help conduct medical exams for individuals applying for immigrant visas, and waive the filing fees for Ukrainians who are petition for visas.

As a result of the long processing time involved in handling immigrant visas, many Ukrainians desperate to enter the United States have traveled to Mexico where they have attempted to enter the U.S. via the southern border. It is estimated that between February 1st, 2022, and April 6th, 2022, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) processed around 10,000 Ukrainian nationals who sought entry into the United States. Many of these nationals were not subjected to Title 42 restrictions and were allowed entry based on humanitarian grounds.

Who else will TPS receive protection?

In addition to Ukrainian nationals, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will also publish new TPS designations for nationals of Sudan (including those with no nationality who last habitually resided in Sudan) who have been living in the United States since March 1st, 2022.

In addition, both Sudanese and Ukrainian students who are in the United States under an F-1 visa will be allowed to request work authorization if they are experiencing a severe economic crisis. As part of this work authorization, students may reduce their course loads in order to work for 18 months.

What can IAS do to help?

Here at IAS, we know that the world is constantly changing. New conflicts arise and new policies are made. We understand that it is difficult to keep up with the latest U.S. immigration changes so we try our best to stay up-to-date with the latest developments so that we can help you or your loved one stay safe and sound.

If you would like expert advice regarding your U.S. immigration case, contact us today at +1 844 290 6312. We can help assess your eligibility and advise you on the best options available to keep you or your loved one in the United States.