DHS Announces Implementation of Program to Help Fleeing Ukrainians Come to the U.S. and Apply for Employment Authorization
In today’s Federal Register, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the implementation of the new “Uniting for Ukraine” parole process under which eligible Ukrainian citizens and their immediate family members, if supported by an individual or entity in the United States, can apply for advance authorization to travel to the United States for the purpose of seeking a discretionary grant of parole at a U.S. port of entry. If advance authorization is granted, the recipient will be permitted to board a flight to the United States for the purpose of requesting parole. If parole is granted pursuant to this process, it will generally be for a term of up to two years. DHS notes that individuals who are paroled into the United States generally may apply for employment authorization.
Per the notice, DHS is outlining the process by which U.S.-based persons can apply to financially support eligible Ukrainian citizens and their immediate family members, the process by which those Ukrainians may request advance authorization to travel to the United States, and the relevant screening and vetting that is required prior to issuance of such travel authorization and any grant of parole. Specifically, certain Ukrainian citizens and certain non-Ukrainian immediate family members who were physically present in Ukraine as of February 11, 2022 and have a U.S.-based supporter are eligible for the Uniting for Ukraine process. To be eligible, the Ukrainian beneficiary must generally possess a valid Ukrainian passport, or if a child without their own passport, be included in a parent’s passport. The Ukrainian beneficiary must also clear biographic and biometric background checks and will need to meet public health requirements, including proof of required vaccinations. Pursuant to these requirements, Ukrainian beneficiaries must demonstrate proof of first doses of measles, polio, and COVID-19 vaccines and must complete a screening for tuberculosis for all individuals two years of age or older.
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