On March 3, 2022, the Secretary of Homeland Security, Alejandro N. Mayorkas, announced the designation of Ukraine for Temporary Protected Status, also known as “TPS.” TPS is a temporary immigration status provided to nationals of certain countries whose country is experiencing problems which make it difficult or unsafe for their nationals to return.
A TPS designation for Ukraine means that eligible Ukrainian nationals who are unable to return home safely due the ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary current conditions in Ukraine may qualify for temporary permission to live in the United States. This permission will also allow the individuals who qualify to apply for employment authorization (also known as a “work permit”) and make those individuals eligible to request travel authorization. During their period of TPS, these individuals will also not be removable or detainable by the Department of Homeland Security (“DHS”) on the basis of their immigration status.
In order to qualify for TPS for Ukraine, you must have continuously resided in the United since March 1, 2022. In addition, you must not have committed certain crimes. Ukraine has been designated for TPS for a period of 18 months, which will begin on the publication of the next Federal Register Notice.
If you think you may qualify for TPS, want more information on TPS status, or want to inquire further on how we can help you or your family members achieve TPS status, please call our office today.