Frequently Asked Questions

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While we do our best to maintain up-to-date information, please note that rules and regulations can change at any time and may be different for each individual case.

Please refer potential beneficiaries to the additional resources for updates and more detailed information (many available in Ukrainian/Russian)

https://www.dhs.gov/ukraine

All Frequently Asked Questions

Click on any question to see detailed answers.

Key Terms

Uniting for Ukraine

The name of the program created by the United States government to streamline the humanitarian parole process for displaced Ukrainian citizens.

Humanitarian Parole

Term used for the process of allowing people in urgent need to arrive in the USA without a visa, but with special parole status instead. Individuals accepted into Uniting for Ukraine are given humanitarian parole status. More on: Humanitarian parole

Beneficiary

Ukrainian citizen who applies for the Uniting for Ukraine program.

Sponsor(s)

A USA-based person (or people) or non-profit who formally agrees to receive and support Ukrainian beneficiaries. Note: They may also be referred to as "supporters" on some websites.

USCIS

United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) is the government agency in the USA that handles immigration, including the Uniting for Ukraine program.

Form I-134

This is the form used to apply to the Uniting for Ukraine program through USCIS. It must be submitted by the sponsor.

Welcome Connect

An optional program that matches displaced Ukrainians with potential American sponsors. It is hosted by an organization called Welcome.US.

Temporary Protected Status (TPS)

Ukrainian citizens can apply for Temporary Protected Status if they are, and have been, in the United States since early 2022. For more details and up-to-date information on this program visit the Department of Homeland Security website on TPS.

About U4U

Why was Uniting for Ukraine created?

On April 21, 2022, President Biden announced Uniting for Ukraine: a new streamlined process to provide Ukrainian citizens who have fled Russia’s unprovoked war of aggression, opportunities to come to the USA. This represents a key step toward fulfilling the President’s commitment to welcome Ukrainians fleeing Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.

Uniting for Ukraine builds on the robust humanitarian assistance the U.S. government is providing as we complement the generosity of countries throughout Europe that are hosting millions of Ukrainian citizens and others who have been displaced.

Source: https://www.dhs.gov/ukraine

Is Uniting for Ukraine the same as United for Ukraine?

No, it's not.

Uniting for Ukraine is the U.S. government program we refer to on this website.

United for Ukraine is an international NGO providing emergency relief and essential information for people fleeing the war in Ukraine. They do not provide access to visas or humanitarian parole into the USA.

Can beneficiaries of Uniting for Ukraine work in the USA?

Beneficiaries can apply for work authorization with USCIS and can work immediately upon approval of the permit. For more information on employment in the USA visit: https://www.uscis.gov/i-765

How long can beneficiaries stay in the USA under Uniting for Ukraine?

Beneficiaries granted humanitarian parole under this process will generally be allowed to live and work under this status for a two year period. We advise speaking with an immigration attorney about what options are available to each individual after this time.

How many Ukrainians will be eligible for Uniting for Ukraine?

President Biden committed to providing refuge to 100,000 displaced Ukrainians and others fleeing Russian aggression in the USA. This figure is not a cap. The design of Uniting for Ukraine relies on the generosity of supporters in the USA who primarily will drive demand for this pathway and determine whether we meet or exceed this goal. The U.S. Government will continue to monitor the situation in Ukraine, the situation for Ukrainians in other host countries, and how Ukrainians access a variety of pathways to the USA.

Answer given directly from Department of Homeland Security


We encourage potential applicants to check the Department of Homeland Security website for updates: https://www.dhs.gov/ukraine

Jobs Sponsorship Pathway

What is the length of the Jobs Sponsorship Pathway?

The Jobs Sponsorship Pathway is a new pathway and continuation of the program is contingent on successful matches between employers and candidates. We expect the program to be ongoing.

What kind of support do resettlement agencies provide to displaced people in the USA?

Resettlement agencies will provide support to new arrival(s) in the following ways:

  • Pre-arrival planning, including identifying housing, airport pick-up, and other needs.
  • Welcome new arrival at airport and transport to temporary or permanent housing.
  • Assist family with any required vaccinations and medical exams.
  • Assist family in applying for SSN within five days if necessary.
  • Assist family in applying for any public benefits based on eligibility (cash assistance, MGP, etc.) within 10 days of arrival.
  • Identify and secure housing with kitchen and affordable rates for each newcomer for up to twelve months.
  • Provide case management and programming based on needs and eligibility.
  • Enroll children and adults in school and ELL classes.
  • Assist with health insurance applications, medical ID enrollment, and accessing medical care.Provide assistance for mental health needs.
  • Establish bank accounts.
  • Provide support in public transportation navigation.
  • Provide food support.
  • Provide cultural orientation and integration.
  • Provide referrals as needed.
  • Work with the employer to offer job - specific work readiness and/ or ELL utilizing ORR funds.

Alongside Alight Guides, the resettlement agency will work to ensure that the Ukrainian family has the critical support they need as they settle into their new community.

How can people stay legally in the USA after the parole term ends?

Beneficiaries granted humanitarian parole under this process will generally be allowed to live and work under this status for a two year period. We advise speaking with an immigration attorney about what options are available to each individual after this time.

Which passport should Ukrainians use for this program? Biometric or international passport?

Ukrainians will need to have an international passport that is not expired (only Ukraine passport—not any other nationality). Biometric passports are recommended.

Which cities/areas in the USA are participating in the Jobs Sponsorship Pathway Program?

The current cities/areas in the USA that are participating are:

  • Syracuse/Buffalo area, New York
  • Boston, Massachusetts
  • Omaha, Nebraska/Council Bluffs, Iowa area

View on google maps

Does signing up for the Jobs Sponsorship Pathway guarantee that I will receive a job offer and be accepted?

Due to the high volume of interest and limited job opportunity placements, we cannot accept all applicants for this program. Our Alight Guides will work with our employer partners to ensure the most qualified candidates are matched with employers. If you do not receive a response from one of our Alight Guides, that indicates you have not proceeded to the next round. If you do not receive an employer match you will not be qualified for Alight sponsorship.

How are successful candidates selected for employment opportunities?

Alight is working with an employment non-profit that helps facilitate matches between candidates and potential employers. A decision on whether to hire someone is made independently by the employer, not by candidates. Employers will reach out to candidates they are interested in after reviewing their CV. It is highly recommended that applications are submitted in English and CVs are uploaded on the job matching platform in English.

How much does childcare cost in the USA?

Childcare can be an expensive part of living in the United States. At a minimum, an individual should estimate 10% of their budget will need to go towards childcare. This is geographically dependent and some people pay much more than 10% for childcare. We recommend candidates with children the age of 5 or above apply. Free public schools begin at the age of 5 and last until a child graduates from high-school (around the age of 18).

Should I use an interpreter during an interview?

We encourage anyone who can conduct a job interview in English without the need for a translator to do so because this makes you a more attractive candidate to employers.

Can elders apply?

In the USA, the average age for retirement from working is 65 years and sometimes beyond that age as well. Older adults may apply, and their acceptance will be dependent on skill and English language abilities in your CV.

What level of English do I need?

Candidates who will be most successful would have moderate to fluent level of English language. There are some positions available for people who speak zero to beginner level English, but those positions are very few.

Can I bring my pets with me?

Candidates will not be allowed to bring pets with them under the Alight Jobs Sponsorship Program.

Can people who are already in the USA apply?

This program is meant for people who are outside of the USA. If you are already in the USA and already have a sponsor you don’t qualify for the jobs sponsorship program.

I don’t need a sponsor, but I still need a job - can this program help?

Alight is currently only matching Ukrainians who do not have a sponsor with employers through this program.

Eligibility and Sponsorship

Who is eligible for Uniting for Ukraine?

Beneficiaries are eligible for the program if they:

  • resided in Ukraine immediately prior to the Russian invasion (until February 11, 2022) and were displaced as a result of the invasion;
  • possess a valid Ukrainian passport (or are a child included on a parent’s passport), or are a non-Ukrainian immediate family member of a Ukrainian citizen who is applying through Uniting for Ukraine;
  • have a supporter who filed a Form I-134, Declaration of Financial Support, on their behalf that has been confirmed as sufficient by USCIS;
  • complete vaccinations and other public health requirements; and
  • clear biometric and biographic screening and vetting security checks.

Note: To be eligible for this process, children under the age of 18 must be traveling to the USA in the care and custody of their parent or legal guardian.

Answer from: https://www.dhs.gov/ukraine

Who is NOT eligible as a Uniting for Ukraine beneficiary?

Ukrainian citizens already in the USA will not be eligible for the Uniting for Ukraine program. However, if they are already present in the country, they may be eligible for TPS (Temporary Protected Status).

Minors traveling to the USA without a parent or legal guardian will not be eligible for the program.

  • If a minor travels without a parent or legal guardian, upon arrival at a US port of entry, they may be placed in the custody of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS).
  • Such action will be under the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008 (TVPRA), in order to protect the minor from human trafficking and other forms of exploitation.
Who are considered immediate family members?

Immediate family members in this process include:

  • the spouse or common-law partner of a Ukrainian citizen; and
  • their unmarried children under the age of 21. NOTE: If a child is under 18, they must be traveling with a parent or legal guardian in order to use this process.

Answer from: https://www.dhs.gov/ukraine

Can children apply without their parent or legal guardian?

Children traveling without their parent or legal guardian are not eligible for parole under Uniting for Ukraine. Upon arrival at a U.S. port of entry, a child who is not traveling with their parent or legal guardian may be placed in the custody of the Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), as required by law under the Trafficking Victims Protection Reauthorization Act of 2008 (TVPRA), to protect the child from human trafficking and other forms of exploitation. For more information, please visit the HHS Unaccompanied Children webpage.

Since they are ineligible to pursue Uniting for Ukraine, children who are not traveling with a parent or legal guardian but are coming to the USA to meet a parent or legal guardian may instead seek parole through the standard Form I-131 parole process.

Who is eligible as a sponsor?

USCIS is only accepting online filing of Form I-134 by individuals agreeing to financially support Ukrainians and their immediate family members as part of Uniting for Ukraine.

Eligible candidates include any American citizen or legal permanent resident (Green Card holder), including non-governmental organizations.

Aliens in the USA under the following legal statuses may also be Uniting for Ukraine sponsors:

  • Political asylum
  • Refuge
  • Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
  • Under Deferred Action (DACA) or Deferred Enforced Departure (DED)
  • Under a temporary stay permit (Parolees)
  • Any Non-immigrant in lawful status. That is, any individual who has maintained their non-immigrant status and has not violated any term or condition of their status.

Sponsors (with any legal status) must declare their financial support to the Ukrainian during their stay in the USA and undergo all necessary checks.

Must sponsors be located in the USA?

Yes, they must be located in the USA to file Form I-134 online. Ukrainians seeking parole under Uniting for Ukraine may not file Form I-134 on their own behalf.

Can sponsors support more than one individual?

Yes. Sponsors/supporters must file a separate Form I-134 for each beneficiary they are planning to support, including minor children. To be eligible for this process, children under the age of 18 must be traveling to the USA in the care and custody of their parent or legal guardian and be able to provide documentation to confirm the relationship.

Application Process

How long will applying for Uniting for Ukraine take?

The Department of Homeland Security anticipates that the process should be fairly quick, but they are not able to definitely say how long the process will take.

If accepted into the United for Ukraine Jobs Sponsorship Pathway Program will I be on H1 or H3 or another visa?

Alight is sponsoring you through an I-134 (which is different than those visa documents). You will be granted humanitarian parole.

What happens if the Form I-134 is insufficient?

If USCIS declares the application insufficient, the Ukrainian beneficiary will receive an email from USCIS notifying them that the form filed on their behalf was not approved. This means the beneficiary was not granted parole for Uniting for Ukraine, however it does not mean they can't try again.


The sponsor may file a new Form I-134 once again (with additional proof of financial capability) or the Ukrainian beneficiary can find a new sponsor to reapply for them.

Is an application for travel document (Form I-131) the same as Uniting for Ukraine (Form I-134)?

No, these are two different approaches to obtain humanitarian parole in the USA. The Application for Travel Document is not specific for Ukrainian citizens. Uniting for Ukraine was created as a way to expedite the process for this extenuating circumstance.

What if the application is denied?

If Form I-134 is not approved, they can apply again. Beneficiaries can choose to reapply with the same sponsors (resubmitting Form I-134 and possibly adding more sponsors to show greater financial support) or they can find a new sponsor to reapply.

Information from USAHello

How long will applying for the Uniting for Ukraine Jobs Sponsorship Pathway take?

We cannot guarantee people who apply for this pathway will be matched with an employer. How long this process takes will be determined on a case-by-case basis.

Once Approved

Once I arrive in the USA, can I leave and re-enter?

Only for special circumstances and with permission.

Who can come with me?

Immediate family members only (unmarried children under 21 and spouses).

Will Ukrainians be vetted prior to arriving to the USA?

As part of the process, individuals will submit biographic and biometric information to the U.S. Government for the purposes of security vetting. Individuals will be checked against a range of inter-agency intelligence, law enforcement, and counter-terrorism holdings. Anyone who does not pass security checks conducted overseas will not be authorized to travel to the USA.

Upon their arrival at a port of entry, each individual will be inspected by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and undergo additional screening and vetting, to include biometric vetting. Anyone determined to pose a national security or public safety threat will be referred to U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

Answer given directly from Department of Homeland Security

Once beneficiaries have arrived in the USA, can they travel outside the country?

If beneficiaries need to leave the USA after they have arrived, they will need to apply for a special travel document called advance parole. They will need to demonstrate an urgent need to travel in order to be granted this approval. If they leave the country without this approval they may not be permitted to return. To apply Form I-131 must be used.

Are vaccines required?

Individuals who seek authorization to travel to the USA via the Uniting for Ukraine process will need to confirm prior vaccination against measles, polio, and COVID-19. If not previously vaccinated, individuals will need to receive a first dose of required vaccines prior to obtaining authorization to travel to the USA. It is enough to have an international certificate for at least one dose received.

In some cases, if the certificates for polio or measles have been lost it may be possible to get duplicates from local clinics in Ukraine since all Ukrainian born children have received these vaccines before.

In addition, all individuals two years of age or older will need to complete a medical screening for tuberculosis, including an Interferon-Gamma Release Assays (IGRA) test, within 90 days of arrival to the USA.

Ukrainian citizens will need to meet other travel requirements as outlined by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), including pre-departure testing for COVID-19.

Answer given directly from Department of Homeland Security

Preview Uniting for Ukraine Vaccine requirements that will be in the USCIS account here.

After two years what happens?

Beneficiaries granted humanitarian parole under this process will generally be allowed to live and work under this status for a two year period. We advise speaking with an immigration attorney about what options are available to each individual after this time.

Moving and working in the USA

If I am accepted through the Alight Jobs Sponsorship program, who will pay for my flights?

Alight will pay for the flights for each member of the family.

What language skills are required?

Not all jobs require English fluency but most will require some. Resettlement agencies or Alight Guides can help enroll you and family in ELL classes.

What should I know about transportation in the USA?

Public transit is available in some places, as well as options for ride sharing, and carpooling. Alight Guides will support with information when and where possible.

I’m worried about a lack of community in the USA - will there be other Ukrainians?

There are large Ukrainian communities in many places in the USA. Alight Guides and resettlement agencies will support with information when and where possible.

What do I need to know about healthcare costs?

You will be eligible to enroll in Medicaid (a government program that helps reduce the cost of health insurance). Resettlement agencies will help you with this process.

How do I make sure my family can access education (for children and adults) & enroll in school?

In the USA, public education is free for children 5 yrs old until the age of 18. Resettlement agencies will help with enrollment in school for 5-18 yr olds. Also English classes will be made available for adults through resettlement agencies.

Can I quit/what if I get fired from my job?

You may quit a job at any time. However, it will impact a few things: the support Alight and resettlement partners can offer becomes extremely limited, and you will be responsible for finding new employment.

How will I find housing?

Resettlement agencies will secure safe, affordable housing. You will begin paying for housing with your first paycheck.

Why do I need to stay in a job for 6 months?

If you stay in the job you originally matched with for 6 months your employer will give a large donation back to the Jobs Pathway Sponsorship program so more Ukrainians can come to the USA.

I’ve heard the USA is very expensive, is this true?

The cost of living will differ based on where you live. Resettlement agencies will help you sign up for temporary benefits that you qualify for that should help reduce the total cost of living. This is done on a state-by-state basis. Once you’re matched with an employer in a certain city, you are encouraged to do research on living expenses. You will be connected with an Alight Guide that will help you navigate this process.

Will I need a bank account and how can I get one?

Alight Guides and our resettlement partners will help you set up a bank account so your employer can deposit pay checks into it.