Understanding the Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) Immigration Process

The Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) program is an immigration initiative designed to support Ukrainian nationals seeking refuge in the United States due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. This program provides a pathway for Ukrainians to enter the U.S. temporarily through humanitarian parole, allowing them to live and work in the U.S. while the situation in their home country remains dire.

Qualifications for U4U Program:

To qualify for the Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) program, applicants must meet the following criteria:

1. Nationality:

• The applicant must be a Ukrainian national or a non-Ukrainian immediate family member of a Ukrainian national (spouse or unmarried child under the age of 21).

1. Presence in the United States:

• The Ukrainian national must be outside the United States at the time of application.

1. Sponsor in the United States:

• The applicant must have a supporter in the United States who agrees to provide financial support for the duration of their stay in the U.S.

• The supporter must be a U.S. citizen, lawful permanent resident, or a legal entity (such as an organization) with lawful status in the U.S.

1. Biometrics and Background Checks:

• The applicant must complete biometrics screening and pass security checks to ensure they do not pose a security risk to the United States.

1. Medical Screening:

• The applicant must complete medical screening for communicable diseases, including vaccinations as required by U.S. public health guidelines.
  

The U4U Application Process:

1. Find a Sponsor:

• The Ukrainian national must secure a sponsor in the United States who is willing to support their application and provide financial assistance.

1. Form I-134, Declaration of Financial Support:

• The U.S. sponsor must file Form I-134, Declaration of Financial Support, with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

• This form demonstrates that the sponsor has sufficient financial resources to support the applicant.

1. USCIS Review:

• USCIS will review the Form I-134 to verify the sponsor’s ability to financially support the applicant.

• If the form is approved, USCIS will notify the Ukrainian applicant to proceed with the application process.

1. Biometrics and Background Check:

• The Ukrainian applicant must complete biometrics screening (fingerprints and photographs) and undergo background checks.

1. Medical Examination:

• The applicant must undergo a medical examination, including vaccinations, to ensure they meet U.S. public health requirements.

1. Travel Authorization:

• Once all the requirements are met, the Ukrainian national will receive authorization to travel to the United States.

• The applicant must arrange their own travel to the U.S.

1. Arrival in the United States:

• Upon arrival, the Ukrainian national will be inspected by Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officers at the port of entry.

• If admitted, the individual will be granted humanitarian parole for a period specified by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).

1. Apply for Employment Authorization:

• The Ukrainian national can apply for employment authorization by submitting Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization, allowing them to work legally in the U.S.
  

Benefits of the U4U Program:

• Temporary Refuge: Provides a safe haven for Ukrainians affected by the conflict, allowing them to live temporarily in the U.S.

• Work Authorization: Eligible participants can apply for and receive authorization to work in the United States.

• Humanitarian Support: The program ensures that Ukrainian nationals have financial support from U.S.-based sponsors.

• Pathway to Stability: Offers a temporary solution while the situation in Ukraine is unstable, with the possibility of exploring other long-term immigration options if eligible.
  

Important Considerations:

• Temporary Status: Humanitarian parole is temporary and does not provide a direct path to permanent residency or citizenship.

• Renewal and Extensions: The duration of stay is determined by DHS, and participants may need to seek extensions or other immigration relief as necessary.

• Legal Guidance: Navigating the U4U application process can be complex. Consulting with an immigration attorney can help ensure all requirements are met and applications are properly filed.
  

The Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) program offers a critical lifeline for Ukrainians seeking safety and stability amidst the ongoing conflict. Our firm is dedicated to assisting you through each step of the U4U process, ensuring a smooth and efficient path to temporary refuge in the United States.