DHS Announces Extension of Temporary Protected Status for Ukraine for 18 months. The extension also grants eligible Ukrainians the ability to live and work in the U.S. until Oct. 19, 2026, without the threat of deportation.
The new designation would apply to anyone who has continuously lived in the United States since at least Aug. 16, 2023, regardless of whether they were in the U.S. lawfully. The broader population covers around 104,000 Ukrainian nationals and will grant them stability and security during this difficult time. If you or someone you know finds yourself in this category, it’s important to move quickly to be clear on the process and comply with the requirements.
What Is Temporary Protected Status?
Temporary Protected Status is a classification given by the U.S. government to nationals of countries undergoing exceptional conditions like war, natural disaster, or serious humanitarian crises. For Ukrainians, the war is dangerous — even without being able to return to their homeland — leading DHS to prolong TPS as a humanitarian effort.
This extension does more than even that. It offers an opportunity for people to live stable lives. TPS allows recipients to work legally, get driver’s licenses, and avoid the insecurity — and fear — that comes with the threat of deportation. If you aren’t sure how this program may affect you or your loved one, contact us. The Law Office of Olena Manilich is here to help answer your particular questions.
Who Qualifies for the Extension?
The TPS extension is available to Ukrainians who:
- They have lived in the United States without interruption since August 16, 2023.
- They satisfy all DHS eligibility standards, which include being a person of good moral character and abiding by TPS terms.
People who are not currently enrolled in TPS but who meet the residence requirement may also now apply during the updated registration period. After that, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will continue to process pending applications that were submitted using the Ukraine designation. The requirements do not mandate the need for initial applicants or anyone currently registered who has a pending Form I-821 (Application for Temporary Protected Status) or Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) to refile such applications.
Should USCIS approve a pending Form I-821, the applicant would receive TPS until October 19, 2026. Similarly, if a pending TPS-related Form I–765 is approved, then USCIS will issue a new Employment Authorization Document (EAD) valid through the same date. These provisions will enable eligible Ukrainians to access the protections and opportunities afforded by TPS without delay.
If you’re attempting to follow these complex requirements, our legal team can help you. Schedule your consultation to navigate every step of the process to ensure that your rights are fully protected.
What Are the Costs and Benefits of TPS?
While there are some fees to apply for or renew TPS, the benefits certainly outweigh the costs. For instance, the filing fee for Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status, is $50. That’s an added $410 if you need an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Biometrics fees may also be due, bringing the total cost to around $495 for most applicants.
TPS provides benefits beyond a legal work authorization. It affords peace of mind, allowing recipients to concentrate on their work, their education, or their family without fear of deportation. Moreover, TPS could provide eligibility for things like a driver’s license or steady work. Not sure what the costs will be or what steps you have to take to get through it, we will walk through each step with you to ensure you understand every part of it.
Why Act Now?
The agency has outlined specific cut-off dates for re-registration and new applications, so time is of the essence. Failure to meet these deadlines can result in losing eligibility and may have long-term, adverse effects on your immigration status.
Immigration policies can be difficult to understand — especially as uncertainty grows. An experienced immigration attorney can remove uncertainty and make sure that you don’t skip any necessary steps along the way. Check our legal services. We have a proven track record of assisting clients in securing their lawful status at The Law Office of Olena Manilich and we can help you do the same.
How We Can Help
Assessing the TPS process can be difficult, however, you don’t have to get it alone. Our specialized legal team provides personalized support, assisting you in collating required paperwork, securing your application , and fulfilling all timelines.
Contact The Law Office of Olena Manilich today if you have a question about the TPS extension for Ukraine or need help with your immigration case. Schedule your consultation. Let us guide you through the next steps towards stability and security in the United States.
