Immigration Options for People Affected by the War in Ukraine

 Posted on March 29, 2022 in Immigration

Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has been devastating for people in the country, as well as Ukrainian citizens around the world. The U.N. is estimating that around 6.5 million people have been displaced from their homes inside Ukraine, and another 3.2 million have fled from the country. Because of the dangerous conditions in Ukraine, refugees who have fled the country are looking to ensure that they will be protected from harm, and Ukrainian citizens will likely want to avoid being forced to return to the country while the war is ongoing. Those who are looking to enter the United States or who are currently in the country will need to understand their immigration options and the protections that may be available.

Refugee and Asylum Protections for Ukrainians

Immigrants who have fled their home countries because they fear for their safety or believe that they will be subject to persecution based on factors such as race, religion, or membership in certain groups may seek to enter the United States as refugees. While the U.S. has only accepted a limited number of Ukrainian refugees so far, the Biden administration is looking to put plans in place to ensure that people who have fled the country will be able to resettle in the United States. Immigrants who have already entered the U.S. may be able to apply for asylum to ensure that they will be able to remain in the country.

Temporary Protected Status to Prevent Deportation

The Department of Homeland Security has designated Ukraine for Temporary Protected Status as of March 1, 2022. This status is used to provide protection for immigrants who may be at risk if they were required to return to their home countries. Ukrainian immigrants who have resided in the U.S. since March 1, 2022 will be protected against deportation. Those who apply for Temporary Protected Status may obtain employment authorization, and they may also receive authorization to travel internationally and return to the U.S. Temporary Protected Status for Ukraine will remain in effect for 18 months, and if necessary, it may be extended in the future.

Other Types of Assistance Available to Ukrainian Immigrants

Because of the issues that are currently affecting Ukrainian citizens, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is providing services to address special situations. Students in the U.S. who have an F-1 visa may apply for employment authorization if they are experiencing financial hardship, and these applications are currently being expedited. Other types of requests are also being expedited, including applications for adjustment of status for those who are currently in the United States on a nonimmigrant visa.

Contact Our DuPage County Immigration Attorneys

If you are a Ukrainian citizen, and you looking to enter or remain in the United States, Unzueta Law Group, P.C. can help you understand your options, and we will work with you to ensure that you receive the protections you need. We can assist with asylum or Temporary Protected Status applications, address issues related to deportation, or help apply for visas and Green Cards. To get legal help with your case, contact our Itasca immigration lawyers today by calling 630-509-2363.

Sources:

https://www.uscis.gov/newsroom/alerts/immigration-help-available-to-those-affected-by-special-situations-including-the-invasion-of-ukraine

https://www.uscis.gov/humanitarian/temporary-protected-status

https://apnews.com/article/russia-ukraine-immigration-europe-migration-united-nations-da9dd481581d2afbf44384741f0d31f3

https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/immigration/biden-admin-expedite-resettlement-vulnerable-ukrainian-refugees-us-rcna21106