The Department of Homeland Security announced an 18-month extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ukraine due to the ongoing armed conflict and unsafe conditions preventing Ukrainians from returning home. This extension allows eligible Ukrainian nationals who arrived in the United States on or before August 16, 2023, to maintain their TPS and work authorization.
The decision to extend TPS stems from the devastating impact of Russia’s expanded military invasion, the largest conventional military action in Europe since World War II. The conflict has resulted in a significant humanitarian crisis, marked by widespread civilian casualties, alleged war crimes, and extensive damage to infrastructure. Millions have fled their homes, facing challenges accessing basic necessities like electricity and medical care. These dire circumstances prevent a safe return for Ukrainian nationals.
The TPS extension enables approximately 103,700 eligible beneficiaries to re-register, provided they continue to meet the necessary requirements. Re-registration is open exclusively to those who previously registered for TPS under the Ukraine designation. This includes Ukrainian nationals and individuals without nationality who last resided in Ukraine and have resided continuously in the United States since at least August 16, 2023, regardless of their immigration status.
All individuals undergo a thorough vetting process for national security and public safety during the initial application and re-registration. Anyone deemed a threat may face detention, removal, or referral to other federal agencies for investigation or prosecution. Individuals with felony convictions or two misdemeanor convictions are ineligible for TPS.
Recognizing potential delays in processing new Employment Authorization Documents (EADs), DHS is automatically extending the validity of previously issued EADs under Ukraine’s TPS designation for 12 months.
USCIS will continue processing pending applications filed under the Ukraine designation. Applicants with pending Form I-821 or Form I-765 do not need to refile. Approved Form I-821 applications will grant TPS through October 19, 2026, and approved TPS-related Form I-765 applications will result in a new EAD valid through the same date. A forthcoming Federal Register notice will provide detailed information on eligibility criteria, timelines, and procedures for re-registration and EAD renewal.
