The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the designation of Ukraine for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months.

“Russia’s premeditated and unprovoked attack on Ukraine has resulted in an ongoing war, senseless violence, and Ukrainians forced to seek refuge in other countries,” said Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas. “In these extraordinary times, we will continue to offer our support and protection to Ukrainian nationals in the United States.”

A country may be designated for TPS when conditions in the country fall under one or more of three statutory designation grounds: ongoing armed conflict, environmental disasters, or emergency and temporary conditions. This appointment is based both on the ongoing armed conflict and on the emergency and temporary conditions in Ukraine that prevent the safe return to the country of Ukrainian citizens and stateless persons who have recently habitually resided in Ukraine. These conditions are the result of Russia’s full-scale military invasion of Ukraine, which marks the largest conventional military operation in Europe since World War II. This incursion triggered a humanitarian crisis, with a significant number of people fleeing and civilian infrastructure damaged, leaving many without electricity, water or access to food, basic necessities, shelter and emergency medical services.

Individuals eligible for TPS under this status must reside in the United States as of March 1, 2022. Individuals who attempt to travel to the US after March 1, 2022 will not be eligible for TPS. Ukraine’s 18-month determination will become effective from the date of publication of the forthcoming Federal Register notice. The Federal Register Notice will contain instructions for applying for TPS and an Employment Authorization Document (EAD). TPS applicants must meet all eligibility requirements and pass security and background checks.