Immigration News & Updates

Department of Homeland Security Extends TPS for Ukraine

Martha Arias - Department of Homeland Security Extends TPS for Ukraine

On January 10, 2025, Department of Homeland Security (DHS) formally extended Ukraine’s TPS designation by 18 months—from April 20, 2025, to October 19, 2026. This announcement provides critical guidance for Ukrainian nationals in the United States who currently hold TPS and wish to maintain their protected status and employment authorization.

The Basis for Extending TPS for Ukraine

DHS, after consulting other government agencies, determined that the ongoing conflict in Ukraine necessitates this TPS extension. Now in its third year, the war with Russia has resulted in widespread humanitarian crises and considerable safety risks, preventing safe return for many Ukrainian nationals. Large-scale attacks on major cities have significantly damaged infrastructure and caused numerous civilian casualties, creating urgent circumstances that justify continued protections.

Who Is Eligible and What Does the Extension Cover?

This extension specifically applies to individuals who:

  • Already have TPS for Ukraine
  • Continue to meet all TPS eligibility requirements

These existing TPS beneficiaries, estimated at around 103,700, must re-register with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) during a specified window to keep their status current.

Re-Registration Period

  • Start Date: January 17, 2025
  • End Date: March 18, 2025

If you do not submit your re-registration application within this timeframe, you risk losing your TPS benefits, including protection from deportation and work authorization.

Work Authorization (EAD) Extensions

Another key piece of the DHS announcement is the automatic extension of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for individuals currently holding TPS under Ukraine’s designation. Recognizing that processing times can sometimes delay new EADs, DHS has automatically extended the validity of certain EADs through April 19, 2026.

  • If your current EAD has a “Category” marked A12 or C19 and displays an expiration date of April 19, 2025, or October 19, 2023, you are covered by this automatic extension.
  • You may present your existing EAD, along with documentation showing your TPS re-registration, as evidence of your valid work authorization through April 19, 2026.

National Security and Public Safety Vetting

It is important to note that DHS carefully vets all TPS applicants—both initially and at re-registration. If a person is found to pose any threat to the United States, they may be detained or removed. Criminal background also matters. Individuals who have been convicted of a felony or two misdemeanors in the United States are prohibited from obtaining TPS.

Pending Applications

According to DHS, those with pending applications under a previous Ukraine TPS designation do not need to file again. If you submitted a Form I-821 (Application for Temporary Protected Status) or a Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization) before January 17, 2025, and it is still pending, USCIS will continue processing it as usual.

If approved, you will receive TPS through October 19, 2026, and any new EAD will also be valid until that date.

Martha Arias - Department of Homeland Security Extends TPS for Ukraine 2

What to Do Next

  • Review the Federal Register Notice: It provides the official criteria, deadlines, and procedures for re-registration.
  • Prepare to Re-Register on Time: Gather necessary documentation and stay alert to USCIS filing deadlines (January 17 to March 18, 2025).
  • Monitor Your EAD Validity: Confirm whether your EAD is automatically extended.
  • Seek Legal Guidance: If you have questions about meeting eligibility requirements or need assistance with your TPS application, consulting with an experienced immigration attorney can help you navigate the process more confidently.

A Word on Irregular Migration

DHS reminds the public that this TPS extension only applies to individuals already in the United States who hold TPS under Ukraine’s designation. Irregular migration routes to enter the United States are dangerous and can lead to serious risks, including loss of life. DHS continues to enforce U.S. immigration laws, and those who cannot establish a legal basis to remain may face removal.

Conclusion

The 18-month extension of TPS for Ukraine through October 19, 2026, acknowledges the ongoing dangers posed by the conflict and provides much-needed relief for Ukrainian nationals who are already protected by TPS in the United States. While this announcement brings some certainty, it is crucial for eligible individuals to pay close attention to re-registration deadlines, verify EAD validity, and remain aware of any additional requirements to ensure uninterrupted protection and the legal ability to work.

If you or someone you know holds TPS under Ukraine’s designation, I encourage you to stay informed, gather the necessary paperwork well in advance, and consider consulting a qualified immigration attorney for personalized guidance. Taking these steps can help preserve your status and ultimately offer peace of mind during these uncertain times.

About Martha Arias

Immigration Attorney, Martha Liliana Arias, Esq. is the founder and sole owner of Arias Villa Law, a full-service immigration law firm located in Miami, FL. Martha has been exclusively and successfully practicing U.S. immigration law for almost two decades; she has relevant experience with removal defense cases, USCIS and NVC cases, and business visas, particularly EB-5 investor visas.

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