Humanitarian parole was put in place with the United for Ukraine (U4U) program, allowing Ukrainians to enter the United States. However recent policy changes embedded in a new administration have thrown into uncertainty many immigration programs. If U4U is suspended or eliminated, it will be up to Ukrainians already in the U.S. to step into the role of finding a different legal avenue to remain and secure their future.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) helps individuals from certain countries stay and work in the U.S. when their home country is in the midst of ongoing armed conflict or other extraordinary conditions. As it stands, Ukraine is still on the TPS list, and extensions are usually for 18 months at a time. Those who are eligible must apply before the current designation runs out to maintain this protection. Although new administrations may reevaluate TPS designations, historical trends indicate that Ukraine is likely to remain eligible at least as long as the war persists.
Initial applications for TPS can take months to process, necessitating early action. Contact us today to see if you’re eligible so that you don’t miss important deadlines.
Asylum: Must Apply No More Than 1 Year After Arrival
For those Ukrainians who are afraid of being persecuted if they go home, applying for asylum might be a reasonable solution. U.S. law requires people seeking asylum to submit their application within a year of arriving unless they meet narrow exceptions. The asylum process can take years, depending on how many cases are backlogged, but approved applicants are given work authorization while waiting for the outcome of their cases.
Since a late filing can hurt an asylum claim, it’s crucial to move quickly. If you think asylum is the appropriate route for you, visit our asylum services on how to prepare a strong application.
Employment-Based Visas
For anyone with specialized skills or a job offer, employment-based visas like the H-1B, EB-3, or O-1 might offer a path to legal status.
H-1B Visa: Employers submit applications in early spring, with a strict lottery system due to high demand. If selected, the visa becomes active in October. Check our H-1B, for more information.
EB-3 Visa: This could take from 1 to 3 years depending on category and country quotas. Take a look at EB-3 visa services, to start your case.
O-1 Visa: This visa, for individuals with extraordinary ability, can be approved in a few months, but gathering documentation and preparing a strong case requires time. The O-1 Visa is also available in our spectrum of services.
Employment-based visas require employer sponsorship and have specific application windows, so it’s important to plan. If you would like to consider such options, schedule a consultation with us to assess the optimal approach for your circumstances.
The Law Office of Olena Manilich will help you to secure your future in the US!
Family Reunification Option
Ukrainians with close relatives in the U.S. can apply for family-based green cards. U.S. citizens may petition for spouses, parents, and children under age 21, but the processing time can be several months or as long as about a year. Green card holders can also sponsor spouses and children, but wait times can be longer because of visa quotas.
Family-based petitions can take years. If you have a relative who can sponsor you, it’s best to start the process as soon as possible. Contact us today to see if this route could be for you.
Humanitarian Parole Extensions
For those who came in through U4U, humanitarian parole is typically for two years. If U4U is ended, they just have to ask to extend parole once the parole time runs out. Although the U.S. government has issued extensions in exceptional situations, there’s no guarantee it will in any given case. Applications must be made with plenty of time before that happens, preferably at least six months before a given parole period expires.
Schedule a consultation to prepare the most compelling application possible if you are confused about your extension eligibility.
Act Before Policies Change Take Effect
Since immigration policies can change rapidly, early planning is imperative. Ukrainians currently in the U.S. under the U4U program, shouldn’t wait for official program changes, and should look at their options as soon as possible. Qualifying for TPS, asylum, a work visa or another legal pathway requires acting at the right time, but it can make all the difference.
In need of assistance deciding the best way to go forward? Contact us today! Our expert team can help give you the legal support you need to secure your future in the U.S.
