Key Takeaways
• Over 187,000 Ukrainians arrived under Uniting for Ukraine by March 2024 with parole valid up to three years.
• TPS for Ukrainians is extended through October 19, 2026; re-registration deadline was March 18, 2025, with late filings allowed.
• April 2025 DHS removal notices sent in error; June 2025 USCIS resumed processing work permits and asylum applications.
More than 187,000 Ukrainians in the United States 🇺🇸 are facing a period of deep uncertainty as the war in Ukraine continues and U.S. immigration policies shift. In recent months, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and other government agencies have made several changes affecting Ukrainians who arrived under humanitarian programs like Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) and Temporary Protected Status (TPS). While no mass deportation order has been finalized, the situation remains tense for thousands who fear losing their right to stay in the country.
Who Is Affected and Why Now?
The main groups affected are Ukrainians who entered the United States 🇺🇸 after Russia’s full-scale invasion in 2022. Many arrived through the U4U program, which allowed U.S. citizens and residents to sponsor Ukrainians fleeing the war. Others received humanitarian parole or applied for TPS, a special status that protects people from countries facing war or disaster from being deported.
As of March 2024, more than 187,000 Ukrainians had arrived under U4U, and the total number of Ukrainian humanitarian parolees in the U.S. is estimated at 236,000 to 240,000. At least 176,000 Ukrainians are covered by TPS, according to advocacy groups.
The uncertainty began in early 2025, when reports surfaced that the Trump administration was considering revoking humanitarian parole and TPS for up to 240,000 Ukrainian refugees. This sparked fear and confusion among the Ukrainian community and their supporters.
What Happened in 2025?
Sudden Notices and Policy Pauses
On April 3, 2025, hundreds of Ukrainians received emails from the Department of Homeland Security stating their parole had been revoked and they must leave the U.S. within seven days. The administration later said these notices were sent in error, but the damage was done—anxiety and fear spread quickly.
In January 2025, the Trump administration paused new applications for U4U and other humanitarian parole programs. This left many families in limbo, unable to bring loved ones to safety or renew their own status.
Court Intervention and Resumed Processing
On May 28, 2025, a federal court ordered DHS to lift the pause on processing applications. U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) resumed handling work permits, TPS, asylum, and green card applications for parolees on June 9, 2025. However, there are still significant backlogs, and many Ukrainians remain unsure if their applications will be approved.
No Final Mass Deportation Order—Yet
Despite media reports and political debate, the Trump administration has not issued a final order to deport Ukrainian parolees as of mid-June 2025. White House Press Secretary Caroline Leavitt called reports of imminent deportations “fake news,” saying, “No decision has been made at this time.” President Trump himself has made mixed statements, saying, “Some people think it’s appropriate, and some people don’t. And I will make a decision soon enough,” but also adding, “We’re not looking to hurt them, especially Ukrainians. They’ve gone through a lot.”
Understanding Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ukrainians
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a special immigration status given to people from countries facing war, natural disasters, or other dangerous conditions. It protects them from deportation and allows them to work legally in the United States 🇺🇸.
For Ukrainians, TPS was first granted in March 2022 and has been extended several times. The most recent extension, issued in January 2025, runs through October 19, 2026. To keep this protection, Ukrainians had to re-register between January 17 and March 18, 2025. Those who missed the deadline can still apply late if they have a good reason, but they must explain why they missed the window.
Key facts about TPS for Ukrainians:
– TPS valid through: October 19, 2026 (if re-registered)
– Re-registration window: January 17 – March 18, 2025 (late applications allowed for good cause)
– Work authorization: TPS holders can apply for work permits and Social Security numbers
For more details on TPS and how to apply or re-register, visit the USCIS Temporary Protected Status page.
The Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) Program
The Uniting for Ukraine program started in April 2022, soon after Russia’s invasion. It allowed U.S. citizens and residents to sponsor Ukrainians for two-year humanitarian parole, later extended to three years. This program brought over 187,000 Ukrainians to the United States 🇺🇸 by March 2024.
However, in January 2025, the Trump administration paused new U4U applications. This means no new Ukrainians can enter under this program for now, and those already here are unsure if they will be able to stay when their parole ends.
Key facts about U4U:
– Parole duration: Up to 3 years
– Current status: No new applications accepted since January 2025
– Total arrivals: Over 187,000 Ukrainians
What Should Ukrainians in the U.S. Do Now?
Given the changing policies and ongoing court cases, Ukrainians in the United States 🇺🇸 should take several steps to protect their status and stay informed.
For TPS Holders
- Re-register for TPS during the official window to extend protection through October 19, 2026.
- If you missed the deadline, file a late re-registration with a written explanation of “good cause.”
- Apply for or renew your work permit using Form I-765 (Application for Employment Authorization).
For U4U Parolees
- Monitor USCIS and DHS updates for any changes to parole status or new application windows.
- Apply for work permits, TPS, or asylum if eligible.
- Seek legal advice about possible adjustment of status (green card), though options are limited for most parolees.
For All Ukrainians
- Stay informed through official government channels like USCIS and DHS.
- Consult immigration attorneys or advocacy groups for personalized guidance.
- Keep copies of all documents and notices received from the government.
The Human Impact: Anxiety, Hope, and Uncertainty
For many Ukrainians, the uncertainty is more than just paperwork—it’s about safety, family, and the fear of being forced to return to a country still at war. Surveys show that most Ukrainian refugees in the United States 🇺🇸 have had positive experiences and report little discrimination. However, the constant threat of losing their legal status makes it hard to plan for the future.
Advocacy groups and legal experts warn that the lack of permanent status for U4U parolees and TPS holders leaves them vulnerable to sudden policy changes. Many worry that if the administration decides to end these protections, thousands could be forced to leave the country with little warning.
Political and Legal Debates
The Trump Administration’s Position
The Trump administration has signaled a tougher approach to both legal and illegal immigration. In January 2025, it paused new humanitarian parole programs, including U4U. While no final decision has been made about mass deportations, the administration is reviewing all humanitarian programs and considering changes that could affect Ukrainians and other groups.
Congress and New Legislation
Senator Dick Durbin (D-IL) introduced the “Protecting our Guests During Hostilities in Ukraine Act” in February 2025. This bill would give U4U parolees a temporary guest status and automatic work authorization. However, it is unclear if Congress will pass the bill, and many Ukrainians are waiting anxiously for news.
Advocacy Groups and Project 2025
Civil rights and immigrant advocacy organizations have warned that proposals like Project 2025 could eliminate TPS for Ukrainians and other vulnerable groups. If this happens, nearly 700,000 immigrants could lose their protection and face deportation.
Recent Developments: What Has Changed?
- April 2025: Hundreds of Ukrainians received mistaken removal notices from DHS, causing panic.
- May 28, 2025: A federal court ordered DHS to resume processing applications for work permits, TPS, asylum, and green cards.
- June 9, 2025: USCIS began processing these applications again, but backlogs and delays remain.
- No mass deportation order: As of June 2025, no final order has been issued, but the situation could change quickly.
Practical Effects for Ukrainians
Work Authorization and Benefits
Both TPS holders and U4U parolees are eligible for work permits, Social Security numbers, and some public benefits. However, delays in processing applications have left many unable to work or access services. This has created financial hardship for some families.
Integration and Community Support
Despite the uncertainty, many Ukrainians report feeling welcomed in the United States 🇺🇸. Community organizations, churches, and advocacy groups have provided support, helping newcomers find housing, jobs, and legal help.
Legal Uncertainty
The biggest challenge is the lack of a clear, long-term solution. Without permanent status, Ukrainians live with the constant fear that their protection could end suddenly. This makes it hard to plan for the future, find stable work, or reunite with family members still abroad.
What Could Happen Next?
Possible Legislative Changes
If Congress passes Senator Durbin’s bill, U4U parolees could receive temporary guest status and work authorization. This would provide some stability, but the bill’s future is uncertain.
Project 2025 and Policy Shifts
If Project 2025 or similar proposals are adopted, TPS could be eliminated for Ukrainians and other groups, putting thousands at risk of deportation.
Court Oversight
Federal courts have played a key role in protecting the rights of Ukrainian refugees and parolees. However, future executive actions could still threaten their status.
No Immediate Mass Deportations
As of June 2025, there is no mass deportation order, but the situation remains fluid. Ukrainians should stay alert for updates and be ready to act if policies change.
Resources for Ukrainians and Supporters
- USCIS: For official updates, forms, and guidance (USCIS website)
- DHS: For policy announcements and legal notices (DHS website)
- Ukrainian Embassy in the U.S.: For consular support
- Legal Aid and Advocacy Groups: Such as Visit Ukraine, Immigration Forum, and civil rights organizations
For TPS re-registration and application forms, visit the USCIS TPS page and Form I-821 (Application for Temporary Protected Status).
Key Facts at a Glance
| Program/Status | Number of Ukrainians | Current Status (June 2025) | Expiration/Deadline |
|---|---|---|---|
| Uniting for Ukraine | 187,000+ | Parolees in legal limbo; no new applications since Jan 2025 | Parole valid up to 3 years |
| Humanitarian Parole | 236,000–240,000 | Some received erroneous removal notices; status under review | Varies |
| Temporary Protected Status (TPS) | 176,000+ | Valid through Oct 19, 2026 (if re-registered) | March 18, 2025 (last re-registration deadline) |
Multiple Perspectives: What Experts and Stakeholders Say
- Legal experts warn that without permanent status, Ukrainians remain at risk of sudden policy changes.
- Advocacy groups argue that deporting Ukrainians would be inhumane, given the ongoing war and lack of safe return routes.
- The Trump administration has signaled a broader crackdown on humanitarian immigration, but no final decisions have been made.
- The Ukrainian community expresses both anxiety about the future and gratitude for the support received in the United States 🇺🇸.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, the situation for Ukrainians in the United States 🇺🇸 remains highly uncertain, with policy changes and court decisions shaping their future on a month-to-month basis.
Action Steps and Takeaways
- Re-register for TPS if eligible, and apply for work permits as soon as possible.
- Monitor official updates from USCIS and DHS for any changes in policy.
- Seek legal advice if you receive any notices or have questions about your status.
- Stay connected with community organizations and advocacy groups for support and information.
Conclusion
While more than 187,000 Ukrainians have found safety in the United States 🇺🇸 under programs like Uniting for Ukraine and TPS, their future remains uncertain. Ongoing policy debates, administrative pauses, and the threat of deportation continue to create anxiety and hardship. Recent court rulings have provided some temporary relief, but only new laws or clear executive decisions can offer long-term security. Ukrainians and their supporters should remain vigilant, seek legal help, and follow official channels for the latest updates.
For the most current information and official guidance, visit the USCIS Temporary Protected Status page.
Learn Today
Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) → A humanitarian parole program allowing U.S. citizens to sponsor Ukrainians fleeing war for temporary entry.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) → An immigration status protecting nationals from countries facing war or disasters from deportation in the U.S.
Humanitarian Parole → Permission granted to individuals for temporary entry into the U.S. due to urgent humanitarian reasons.
Employment Authorization Document (EAD) → A work permit issued by USCIS allowing certain immigrants to work legally in the United States.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) → U.S. federal agency overseeing national security and immigration enforcement programs.
This Article in a Nutshell
More than 187,000 Ukrainians in the U.S. face uncertainty amid shifts in immigration policies and court actions affecting TPS and U4U statuses.
— By VisaVerge.com
