Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) program: current status
⚠️ Please note! The Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) program is currently suspended.
The U.S. government has temporarily suspended the approval of new immigrant applications, which has affected the U4U program. New participants are unable to apply, but the status of individuals already in the United States under this program remains valid.
What is Uniting for Ukraine?
The Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) program was launched on April 21, 2022 as a temporary humanitarian mechanism for Ukrainians fleeing the war. It allowed:
- Citizens of Ukraine and their immediate family members to receive a Humanitarian Parole and stay in the United States for up to 2 years.
- Apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
- Receive sponsorship from a US resident.
How did the U4U program work?
1. A sponsor in the United States applied for support for a Ukrainian beneficiary through Form I-134 to the USCIS.
2. After verifying the sponsor's financial solvency, the Ukrainian beneficiary was able to apply.
3. Medical requirements (vaccinations, tests) had to be fulfilled.
4. The participant received permission to travel to the United States, after which he or she could enter and apply for a Humanitarian Parole.
5. Upon arrival in the United States, a work permit could be applied for.
Official information: USCIS - Uniting for Ukraine
Temporary protection status (TPS) for Ukrainians
What is TPS?
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a special immigration status that allows citizens of countries where war, environmental disasters, or other dangerous circumstances are ongoing to obtain temporary protection in the United States.
Ukraine was included in the list of countries whose citizens can receive TPS due to the ongoing war.
What does TPS provide?
✔️ Legal stay in the United States until April 19, 2025 (with a possible extension in 2025).
✔️ Possibility to obtain an employment authorization document (EAD).
✔️ The right to legally return to the United States after traveling outside the country (with a TPS Travel Authorization).
TPS does not automatically entitle you to a Green Card or citizenship.
Official information on TPS for Ukraine:
USCIS - Temporary Protected Status for Ukraine
Which Ukrainians can apply for TPS?
🔹 You entered the United States before August 16, 2023 inclusive.
🔹 You have resided in the United States continuously since your entry.
You have not had any serious problems with the law in the United States.
TPS can be applied for by:
✔️ Holders of a tourist visa.
✔️ Individuals with a humanitarian password (including U4U).
✔️ Those who have applied for political asylum.
✔️ Persons in the process of deportation.
They cannot receive TPS:
❏ Persons who entered the United States after August 16, 2023.
Citizens of other countries, even if they are family members of a Ukrainian citizen.
How to apply for TPS?
There are two ways to apply
1. Online through myUSCIS - the fastest and most recommended way.
2. Postal filing - sending documents to USCIS (the address can be found in the “Where To File” section on the TPS Ukraine page).
Documents to be submitted for TPS
- Form I-821 - application for TPS.
- Form I-765 - for obtaining an employment authorization (EAD).
- A copy of your Ukrainian passport (all pages, even expired passports).
- Form I-94 - proof of your last entry into the United States.
- Documents confirming your residence in the United States since August 16, 2023 (lease agreements, utility bills, bank statements, school documents for children).
- Passport-size photo (2x2 inches) - for paper application (2 pieces).
How much does TPS cost?
The cost of applying for TPS
✔️ First TPS application - $50
✔️ Re-registration - free of charge
✔️ Biometric fees - $30
✔️ Employment Authorization Document (EAD) - $470 (for online filing)
✔️ TPS Travel Authorization (I-131) - $630
If you are unable to pay the fees, you can file Form I-912 for a fee waiver due to financial hardship.
