The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced an 18-month extension of Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Ukraine, extending the program from April 20, 2025, to October 19, 2026. The decision comes in response to the ongoing war with Russia and extraordinary conditions that make it unsafe for Ukrainians to return home.
The extension allows approximately 103,700 current beneficiaries to re-register for TPS between January 17, 2025, and March 18, 2025, provided they meet all eligibility requirements. Re-registration is critical to maintaining TPS status and employment authorization.
The war in Ukraine, now in its third year, has resulted in large-scale attacks on major cities, extensive civilian casualties, infrastructure destruction, and widespread humanitarian suffering. Following consultations with interagency partners, DHS determined that the extension is necessary to support those affected by these conditions.
To address employment gaps, DHS has automatically extended the validity of Employment Authorization Documents (EADs) for TPS holders through April 19, 2026. Beneficiaries can use EADs with specific category codes as proof of continued work authorization.
The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) will also continue processing pending TPS applications under previous designations. Individuals with pending applications as of January 17, 2025, do not need to reapply. If approved, they will receive TPS and EADs valid through October 19, 2026.
DHS emphasized the rigorous national security and public safety vetting that applicants undergo during both the initial application and re-registration processes. Individuals with felony convictions or multiple misdemeanors remain ineligible for TPS and may face detention or removal.
This extension applies exclusively to Ukrainians already in the United States with current TPS status. DHS reiterated that irregular migration journeys remain perilous and unlawful, with enforcement measures in place to return noncitizens without a legal basis to remain.
The Federal Register notice provides full details on eligibility, application timelines, and procedures for re-registration and EAD renewal.
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