Government Designates Ukraine for TPS
On March 3, 2022, US Department of Homeland Security Secretary Alejandro Mayorkas announced the designation of Ukraine for Temporary Protected Status (“TPS”). In light of ongoing armed conflict and hostilities, eligible nationals of Ukraine who are currently in the United States (and unable to safely return) may now be able to avail themselves of this humanitarian measure which would permit them to remain in the country and work with authorization for at least eighteen months. It is important to note that the TPS provision applies only to Ukrainian nationals (and those of no nationality who last habitually resided in Ukraine) who have resided in the US since March 1, 2022. Anybody who enters the country from Ukraine after March 1, 2022 is not eligible. Additionally, applicants with criminal records in the US may be disqualified, specifically those who have been convicted of any felony or two or more misdemeanors committed in the US.
TPS will go into effect once the designation is formally published int eh Federal Register. As of today, it has not been published but it is anticipated that it will come out very soon.
If you are from Ukraine and think you may benefit from TPS, please call our office for help. As attorneys with over twenty-five years immigration experience, we would be happy to consult with you and explore your options.