For Ukrainians currently residing in the United States, navigating daily life while keeping in touch with loved ones back home is a key concern. One of the first things many think about is: What Time Is It In Ukraine? Understanding the time difference is crucial for staying connected with family and friends, especially during these challenging times. While you’re managing these personal connections, it’s also vital to understand your legal status in the U.S., particularly concerning programs like Temporary Protected Status (TPS).
This guide provides essential information about TPS for Ukrainians in the U.S., including re-registration and initial application periods, and how to maintain your legal status while staying connected across time zones.
TPS Re-registration: Don’t Miss the Deadline
If you are already a TPS holder under Ukraine’s designation and wish to maintain your status, re-registration is mandatory. The current re-registration period is from January 17, 2025, through March 18, 2025. It is highly recommended to re-register as early as possible within this 60-day window to avoid any lapse in your TPS benefits.
Applying for TPS for the First Time
For those applying for TPS under the Ukraine designation for the first time, the registration period is from August 21, 2023, through April 19, 2025. You are encouraged to apply as soon as you can within this extended period to ensure timely processing of your application.
This image illustrates the process of filing for Temporary Protected Status, highlighting the necessary forms and online filing options.
Where to File Your TPS Application
USCIS offers convenient online filing for TPS applications for Ukraine.
Online Filing:
For both initial TPS applications and re-registrations, you can file Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected Status online. Simultaneously, you can request an Employment Authorization Document (EAD) by submitting Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization online with your Form I-821.
Paper 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 TPS package to the appropriate USCIS Lockbox based on your state of residence.
Mailing Addresses for Paper Applications:
| 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 |
Remember to send your application to the correct Lockbox location based on your state to ensure proper processing.
Understanding Your Employment Authorization Document (EAD)
Upon approval of your TPS registration and EAD application (Form I-765) with fee payment or approved fee waiver, USCIS will issue an EAD. Initially, EADs issued under the Ukraine TPS designation had an expiration date of April 19, 2025, or Oct. 19, 2023.
Automatic EAD Extension:
It’s important to note that USCIS has automatically extended the validity of these EADs through April 19, 2026. This automatic extension applies to EADs issued under the TPS designation of Ukraine with the original expiration dates mentioned above.
This image provides an example of an Employment Authorization Document and highlights the automatic extension for certain TPS categories.
Using Your Extended EAD:
To demonstrate your authorization to work in the United States, you can present the following documentation to your employer:
- 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 proof of the continued validity of your EAD. More details can be found on the USCIS page dedicated to Documentation Employers May Accept and Temporary Protected Status Beneficiaries May Present as Evidence of Employment Eligibility.
New EADs upon Re-registration:
If your TPS re-registration application is approved and you applied for a new EAD with the required fee (or fee waiver), USCIS will issue a new EAD with an expiration date of Oct. 19, 2026.
Exploring Other Immigration Options
TPS is a temporary form of relief. It’s also prudent to explore other potential immigration options that may be available to you. USCIS provides resources to help you understand these options on their Explore My Options page.
For those seeking lawful permanent resident status (Green Card), you must meet the eligibility criteria under one of the categories listed on the Green Card Eligibility Categories page. This page offers detailed information on requirements and application processes for various categories.
Important Note on Asylum:
For individuals considering asylum, being granted and maintaining TPS can be beneficial. USCIS considers maintaining TPS as an “extraordinary circumstance” that can pause the one-year deadline for filing an asylum application, provided the one-year period hasn’t already expired upon receiving TPS. Refer to 8 CFR 208.4(a)(5)(iv) for more information.
Protect Yourself from Immigration Scams
It’s crucial to be vigilant against immigration scams. Unauthorized individuals may attempt to exploit your need for immigration assistance. Always seek legal advice from authorized professionals. Only attorneys or accredited representatives recognized by the Department of Justice (DOJ) are qualified to provide legal advice.
USCIS provides a list of accredited representatives and free or low-cost legal service providers on their finding legal advice webpage. Educate yourself about how to Avoid Scams to protect yourself from fraud.
Stay Informed and Seek Legitimate Help
Navigating immigration processes can be complex. Always rely on official sources like the USCIS website for accurate information and seek assistance from authorized legal professionals when needed. Understanding your rights and responsibilities is key to a secure future in the U.S., while staying connected with your home and loved ones, no matter what time it is in Ukraine.
Related Resources:
Forms
Tools
Other USCIS Links
Non-USCIS Links
