The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) extended the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) designations for Ukraine for 18 months, beginning on October 20, 2023, and ending on April 19, 2025. In addition, DHS redesignated Ukraine for TPS.
TPS is a temporary immigration status granted to eligible nationals of a foreign country designated for TPS, or to eligible individuals without nationality who last habitually resided in the designated foreign country, regardless of their country of birth.
During the TPS designation period, TPS beneficiaries are eligible to remain in the United States, may not be removed, and are authorized to obtain EADs as long as they continue to meet the requirements of TPS. Ukraine was initially designated for TPS because of the ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions in Ukraine that prevented nationals of Ukraine from returning in safety.
Extension of TPS for Ukraine nationals
The extension of TPS for Ukrainian nationals, allows existing TPS beneficiaries from Ukraine to retain TPS through April 19, 2025, as long as they continue to meet the eligibility requirements for TPS. Existing TPS beneficiaries who wish to extend their status through April 19, 2025, must re-register during the 60-day re-registration period (to be announced).
Please note that it is important for re-registrants to timely re-register during the registration period and not to wait until their Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) expire, as delaying reregistration could result in gaps in their employment authorization documentation.
Redesignation of TPS for Ukraine
The redesignation of Ukraine for TPS allows additional nationals of Ukraine (and individuals having no nationality who last habitually resided in Ukraine) who have been continuously residing in the United States since August 16, 2023, to apply for TPS for the first time during the initial registration period.
Under the redesignation, individuals who currently do not have TPS may submit an initial application during the initial registration period. The initial registration period for new applicants under the Ukraine TPS redesignation will be announced soon and will remain in effect through April 19, 2025.
In addition to demonstrating continuous residence in the United States since August 16, 2023, and meeting other eligibility criteria, initial applicants for TPS under this designation must demonstrate that they have been continuously physically present in the United States since October 20, 2023.
Malescu Law can assist
Contact our experienced immigration lawyers in Miami, Florida, USA to schedule an appointment for your immigration case or if you need assistance with your TPS application, EAD renewal or to obtain an automatic extension of your EAD work authorization.
Malescu Law P.A. – Business & Immigration Lawyers
