The U.S. has extended temporary protection for Ukrainians for an additional 18 months.

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced on January 10 the extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ukraine for an additional 18 months. This decision was made due to the ongoing armed conflict and extraordinary conditions that make it unsafe for Ukrainian citizens to return to their homeland.

The press release stated that Russia's military invasion has resulted in numerous civilian casualties, as well as reports of war crimes and crimes against humanity. Russian aggression has triggered a large-scale humanitarian crisis, forcing many people to flee their homes. Significant damage to civil infrastructure, power outages, and limited access to medical services have also contributed to the inability to return safely.

The TPS extension will allow approximately 103,700 Ukrainian citizens to re-register, provided they meet the necessary criteria. This status can be granted to Ukrainian nationals (or stateless individuals whose last place of residence was Ukraine) who have continuously resided in the U.S. since at least August 16, 2023, regardless of their legal immigration status.

The Department also announced that the validity of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) issued under TPS will be automatically extended for 12 months. This decision will assist those who are unable to obtain a new EAD before the expiration of their previous one.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will continue processing applications from both new applicants and those re-registering. If an application on Form I-821 is approved, the temporary residency status will be extended until October 19, 2026. Applications for employment authorization using Form I-765 will also provide new EADs with the same expiration date.