The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced significant policy updates regarding Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for several countries and Romania’s designation under the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP). These developments underscore the U.S. government’s commitment to humanitarian relief and strengthened global partnerships.
TPS Extensions for Ukraine, Venezuela, Sudan, and El Salvador
Ukraine:
The TPS designation for Ukraine has been extended by 18 months, now valid from April 20, 2025, through October 19, 2026. This decision reflects the ongoing armed conflict and humanitarian crisis resulting from Russia’s expanded military aggression.
- Reasons for Extension: Continued military aggression, high civilian casualties, and unsafe conditions for return.
- Eligibility: Ukrainian nationals (or stateless individuals last residing in Ukraine) who resided in the U.S. since August 16, 2023. Criminal convictions (e.g., a felony or two misdemeanors) render individuals ineligible.
- Employment Authorization: EADs are automatically extended for 12 months, and pending applications will be processed without re-filing.
Venezuela:
The TPS designation for Venezuela has been extended through October 2, 2026, in response to severe humanitarian crises under the Maduro regime, including food shortages, lack of medicine, and widespread violence.
- Eligibility: Venezuelan nationals who resided in the U.S. as of July 31, 2023. Criminal records result in ineligibility.
- Re-registration: Approximately 600,000 current beneficiaries must re-register by September 10, 2025.
- Employment Authorization: EADs are automatically extended through April 2, 2026.
Sudan:
TPS for Sudan has been extended through October 19, 2026, due to ongoing armed conflict, political instability, and human rights abuses.
- Eligibility: Sudanese nationals who resided in the U.S. as of August 16, 2023.
- Re-registration: Rigorous vetting continues for re-registration to ensure safety.
- Employment Authorization: EADs are extended for 12 months to prevent lapses.
El Salvador:
Following two devastating earthquakes in 2001, El Salvador’s designation has been extended multiple times. Recent legal decisions have rescinded termination orders, and TPS is now valid through March 9, 2025.
- Eligibility: Salvadoran TPS beneficiaries must re-register in order to maintain their status.
- Rationale: Long-term effects of the 2001 earthquakes continue to impact the nation’s recovery.
Romania Joins the U.S. Visa Waiver Program (VWP):
Romania has been designated as the 43rd member of the VWP, enabling Romanian citizens to apply for visa-free travel to the United States for up to 90 days starting around March 31, 2025. This designation highlights Romania’s commitment to meeting stringent security and counterterrorism standards and reflects the strong strategic partnership between the two nations.
Key highlights include:
- Romanian citizens can use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for business or tourism.
- Travelers with valid B-1/B-2 visas may continue to use them.
- S. citizens already enjoy visa-free travel to Romania for up to 90 days.
Conclusion:
These updates highlight the U.S. government’s dedication to providing humanitarian relief and fostering international cooperation. For those impacted, timely re-registration and understanding eligibility criteria are essential to maintaining benefits under these programs. If you are interested in exploring these opportunities or learning more about these policies, don’t hesitate to reach out to our team at Berardi Immigration Law.
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