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Important Update: TPS Extension for Ukraine Through October 2026

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Law Offices of Ernest Goodman > Immigration Law  > Important Update: TPS Extension for Ukraine Through October 2026

Important Update: TPS Extension for Ukraine Through October 2026

Hello everyone,

Today we will talk about the recent extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ukraine. On January 10, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced an 18-month extension of TPS for Ukraine, which will now run from April 20, 2025, through October 19, 2026. This extension was granted due to the ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary conditions in Ukraine that make it unsafe for individuals to return at this time.

A Brief History of Ukraine’s TPS Designation

Ukraine was first designated for TPS on April 19, 2022, in response to the armed conflict and extraordinary conditions in the country that made safe return impossible for its nationals. This initial designation covered nationals of Ukraine who were already present in the United States at that time.

Following the initial designation, TPS for Ukraine was extended and redesignated on October 20, 2023, and set to last through April 19, 2025, as the war with Russia and its humanitarian impact continued to escalate. These steps reflect the U.S. government’s recognition of the severe and ongoing threats faced by Ukrainians.

Why This Extension Was Granted

The most recent decision to extend TPS comes after consultation with interagency partners. The conditions in Ukraine—stemming from a war now entering its third year—include:

  • Large-scale attacks on major cities.
  • Increased civilian casualties.
  • Widespread destruction of infrastructure.
  • Humanitarian suffering on an immense scale.

Given the persistence of these conditions, an additional 18-month extension of TPS was deemed necessary.

Who Is Affected?

Approximately 103,700 current beneficiaries are eligible to re-register for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) during this extension period. The re-registration window runs from January 17, 2025, to March 18, 2025, and it is crucial that eligible individuals complete the process within this timeframe to maintain their TPS and employment authorization.

A Simple and Straightforward Process

The re-registration process is generally straightforward. Current beneficiaries will need to file Form I-821 (Application for Temporary Protected Status) during the re-registration period. Those seeking to maintain their employment authorization should also file Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization), if applicable. USCIS has detailed instructions available to guide applicants through the process, making it accessible for most beneficiaries.

Why Re-registering on Time Matters

Timely re-registration is essential to ensure that individuals do not lose their TPS benefits or employment authorization. For example, failing to re-register by March 18, 2025, could result in a lapse of status and work authorization, even if the individual remains otherwise eligible for TPS.

Employment Authorization Updates

For those concerned about employment authorization:

  • DHS has automatically extended EAD validity through April 19, 2026.
  • Beneficiaries can use their existing EAD (Category A12 or C19) with expiration dates of April 19, 2025, or October 19, 2023, as proof of continued work authorization.

Pending Applications

If you have a pending Form I-821 (Application for Temporary Protected Status) or Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) as of January 17, 2025, you do not need to refile these applications. USCIS will continue processing any applications that were submitted under a previous TPS designation for Ukraine. Once your application is approved, you will be granted TPS through October 19, 2026, and, if applicable, issued an updated Employment Authorization Document (EAD) valid through the same date.

Example

For instance, if Maria submitted her Form I-821 and Form I-765 in August 2024 under the prior extension and redesignation of TPS for Ukraine, but her applications are still pending as of January 17, 2025, she does not need to submit new forms. USCIS will process her pending applications, and once approved, Maria will be granted TPS through October 19, 2026. Additionally, if she had applied for employment authorization, she will receive a new EAD reflecting the updated expiration date.

This process ensures that individuals with pending applications are not required to duplicate efforts and incur additional fees while still benefiting from the protections of TPS and continued work authorization.

Eligibility and Security Screening

TPS applicants undergo rigorous national security and public safety screening during both the initial application and re-registration processes. Individuals convicted of certain crimes (e.g., any felony or two misdemeanors) are ineligible for TPS.

This latest extension highlights the U.S. government’s continued support for individuals fleeing dangerous conditions in Ukraine. If you or someone you know qualifies for TPS, ensure timely re-registration to maintain these vital protections.

Please keep in mind that this information is not a substitute for legal advice from an attorney.

Key Takeaway

The TPS re-registration process is designed to be manageable and ensures that eligible individuals maintain their benefits. While the associated costs ($30 for biometrics and $470 for the work permit) are an important consideration, they help beneficiaries maintain crucial protections and employment opportunities. Starting early in the re-registration window ensures a smooth process and avoids last-minute complications.

 

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