On March 3, 2022, the United States Department of Homeland Security announced that it has designated Ukraine for Temporary Protected Status for a period of eighteen (18) months.
What does being designated for TPS mean?
TPS is a humanitarian immigration benefit designed to protect foreign nationals from deportation when the conditions in a designated country fall into one or more of the three statutory bases for designation: ongoing armed conflict, environmental disasters, or extraordinary and temporary conditions.
What are the benefits of TPS?
TPS holders are entitled to the following benefits:
TPS holders are not removable from the United States (even if they previously have been ordered removed);
TPS holders can obtain an Employment Authorization Document (EAD), also known as a work permit, which authorizes them to work in the United States;
TPS holders are eligible to receive advance parole, authorizing them to travel abroad and return to the United States without risking losing their TPS.
Why was Ukraine designated for TPS?
The Department of Homeland Security’s designation of Ukraine for TPS is based on both the ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions in Ukraine that prevent Ukrainian nationals, and those of no nationality who last habitually resided in Ukraine, from returning to Ukraine safely.
The ongoing military invasion Ukraine is presently facing has caused a humanitarian crisis with significant numbers of individuals fleeing the country. Critical damage to civilian infrastructure has left many without basic necessities such as electricity, water, food, shelter, and emergency medical services.
Eligibility of Ukrainians
Individuals eligible for TPS under this designation must have continuously resided in the United States since March 1, 2022. Individuals who attempt to travel to the United States after March 1, 2022 will not be eligible for TPS.
You can read more about TPS, including eligibility for TPS, benefits of TPS, and countries currently designated for TPS, here.
Can Eligible Ukrainians Register Now?
At present, individuals who may qualify for TPS cannot yet register until the TPS designation is published in the Federal Register. Once published, the Federal Register will set forth the applicable registration for TPS as well as the instructions for applying for TPS and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD).
At The Law Office of George K. Gomez, our immigration lawyers can help you learn more about TPS, the benefits of such a designation, and whether you qualify for this benefit.
A TPS Immigration Lawyer With the Experience You Need. Contact The Law Office of George K. Gomez Today!
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