Temporary Protected Status (TPS) has been designated for Ukraine, offering a temporary haven in the United States for eligible Ukrainian nationals and individuals who last habitually resided in Ukraine. If you are seeking to benefit from this designation, it’s crucial to understand the key deadlines and registration periods. This guide provides essential information to help you navigate the TPS process for Ukraine.
Understanding TPS for Ukraine
The U.S. government has granted TPS to Ukraine due to the ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary and temporary conditions in the country that prevent Ukrainian nationals and residents from safely returning. This designation allows eligible individuals already in the United States to remain and work here temporarily.
Key Registration Periods and Deadlines
It’s vital to be aware of the specific registration periods whether you are currently a TPS holder or a first-time applicant:
For Current TPS Holders (Re-registration)
If you already have TPS under Ukraine’s designation and wish to maintain your status, you must re-register. The re-registration period is 60-days, running from January 17, 2025, through March 18, 2025. It is highly recommended to re-register as early as possible within this timeframe to ensure continuous TPS benefits.
For New TPS Applicants (Initial Registration)
If you are applying for TPS under the Ukraine designation for the first time, the registration period began on August 21, 2023, and will continue through April 19, 2025. You are encouraged to apply as soon as possible within this extended period to access the protections and benefits of TPS.
Where and How to File Your TPS Application
USCIS provides options for both online and mail-in applications depending on your situation:
Online Filing
For TPS Ukraine, you can conveniently file Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status online. Alongside your TPS application, you can also apply for an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) by submitting Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization online with your Form I-821.
Mail-in Filing
If you prefer to file a paper application for your initial TPS application or re-registration, or if you are requesting a replacement EAD for your existing TPS, you should mail your application package to the appropriate USCIS Lockbox based on your state of residence.
Mailing Addresses Based on Your State of Residence:
| If you are applying for TPS under the designation for Ukraine and you live in: | Then mail your application to: |
|---|---|
| – Alabama – Alaska – American Samoa – Arizona – Arkansas – Colorado – Connecticut – Delaware – District of Columbia – Florida – Georgia – Guam – Hawaii – Idaho – Illinois – Indiana – Iowa – Kansas – Kentucky – Louisiana – Maine – Maryland – Massachusetts – New York – Ohio | USCIS Chicago Lockbox U.S. Postal Service (USPS): U.S. Citizenship and Immigration ServicesAttn: TPS UkraineP.O. Box 4464Chicago, IL 60680-4464 FedEx, UPS, or DHL: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration ServicesAttn: TPS Ukraine (Box 4464)131 S. Dearborn St., 3rd FloorChicago, IL 60603-5517 |
| – California – Michigan – Minnesota – Mississippi – Missouri – Montana – Nebraska – Nevada – New Hampshire – New Jersey – New Mexico – North Carolina – North Dakota – Northern Mariana Islands – Oklahoma – Oregon – Pennsylvania – Puerto Rico – Rhode Island – South Carolina – South Dakota – Tennessee – Texas – Utah – Vermont – Virgin Islands – Virginia – Washington – West Virginia – Wisconsin – Wyoming | USCIS Phoenix Lockbox U.S. Postal Service (USPS): U.S. Citizenship and Immigration ServicesAttn: TPS UkraineP.O. Box 24047Phoenix, AZ 85074-4047 FedEx, UPS, or DHL: U.S. Citizenship and Immigration ServicesAttn: TPS Ukraine (Box 24047)2108 E. Elliot Rd.Tempe, AZ 85284-1806 |
USCIS Chicago Lockbox Mailing Address for TPS Ukraine Applications. Ensure your application is sent to the correct location based on your residency.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD) and Automatic Extension
Upon approval of your TPS registration and EAD application (Form I-765), USCIS will issue an EAD. Initially issued EADs under the Ukraine TPS designation had an expiration date of April 19, 2025, or Oct. 19, 2023.
Automatic EAD Extension Through April 19, 2026
USCIS has automatically extended the validity of these EADs through April 19, 2026. If your EAD falls within this category, you can continue using it as proof of your employment authorization until April 19, 2026.
To demonstrate your work authorization to employers, you should present:
- Your TPS-related EAD with an expiration date of April 19, 2025, or Oct. 19, 2023; and
- A copy of the Federal Register notice announcing the automatic extension.
Employers are instructed to accept the Federal Register notice as evidence of the continued validity of your EAD.
Example of a TPS-related Employment Authorization Document (EAD). Check the expiration date to understand if you qualify for the automatic extension.
New EADs Upon Re-registration Approval
If you re-register for TPS and your application is approved, you will receive a new EAD with an expiration date of October 19, 2026.
Exploring Other Immigration Options
TPS is temporary. You may also be eligible for other immigration options in the U.S. It is advisable to explore possibilities for more permanent pathways. Resources like the Explore My Options page on the USCIS website can help you understand if you qualify for other immigration statuses.
For those seeking lawful permanent resident status (Green Card), you must meet the eligibility criteria under one of the Green Card Eligibility Categories.
USCIS Green Card. While TPS offers temporary protection, exploring pathways to a Green Card can provide long-term stability.
Important Note on Asylum: If you are considering asylum, be aware that being granted and maintaining TPS can positively impact your asylum application. It is considered an extraordinary circumstance that may excuse delays in filing for asylum within one year of entering the U.S., if applicable.
Protect Yourself from Immigration Scams
Be cautious of unauthorized individuals offering immigration assistance and claiming they can help you file TPS forms for a fee. Always seek legal advice from authorized professionals, such as attorneys or accredited representatives recognized by the Department of Justice (DOJ). You can find a list of free or low-cost legal service providers on the USCIS finding legal advice webpage. Report suspected scams and protect yourself from fraud by visiting the Avoid Scams page.
By understanding these critical timelines and procedures, Ukrainians eligible for TPS can take the necessary steps to secure their status and temporary protection in the United States. Stay informed, act promptly within the registration periods, and seek reliable assistance when needed.
