TPS: Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Can I apply for TPS now if I arrived after April 2022?
- Yes. All Ukrainians who arrived before August 16, 2023 are eligible to apply.
❓ Can I apply for TPS if I am in court proceedings or have a deportation order?
- Yes.
❓ We crossed the border using a different passport, but also have a Ukrainian passport. Can we apply for TPS?
- Yes.
❓ If I have U4U, do I need to switch to TPS?
- TPS does not replace your U4U status. TPS gives some benefits such as the ability to travel abroad and easier status changes (for example, through marriage or a work visa).
❓ Will U4U beneficiaries lose benefits if they switch to TPS and travel outside the US with a Travel Document?
- No, they will not lose benefits as long as presence in the US is not a requirement. Receiving TPS does not affect benefits.
❓ How long does TPS renewal processing take?
- It is difficult to say exactly. Processing times depend on the office and the number of staff. Based on experience from other countries, it can take 4–9 months.
❓ Is it faster to file online or by mail?
- There is no strict difference. Some cases are processed faster online, some slower. Filing online allows you to immediately receive an I-797 Notice of Action.
❓ I have already done biometrics. Do I need to do it again and pay $85?
- Usually, they will use your previous biometrics. You do not need to go again, but the $85 fee still applies.
❓ Will expired passports, status, or past convictions/fines in the US affect TPS eligibility?
- No, none of these prevent you from receiving TPS.
❓ It says employment authorization is automatically extended. Do I still need to apply for renewal?
- Yes! You must renew TPS itself. There is only 1.5 months left – until October 20, 2023.
⏺ EMPLOYMENT AUTHORIZATION
❓ Do I need to file I-765 again and pay $410?
- Yes! Although employment authorization is automatically extended, it is only extended for one year – until October 2024. This ensures you can file a new application and receive a new EAD. Otherwise, you will lose the right to work in October 2024 and will not be able to get a new EAD until the next TPS renewal in 2025.
❓ If I already have an EAD and SSN, should I get a work permit under TPS?
- You can have multiple EADs under different categories, but it is not required. Decide which status is more beneficial for your EAD.
⏺ TRAVEL DOCUMENT
❓ How long does it take to get a TPS travel document?
- Currently, processing takes 7–17 months.
❓ How long is the travel document valid?
- 1 year
❓ Can I only travel once?
- The travel document can be used multiple times.
❓ Can I file I-131 online for TPS travel document?
- No, TPS I-131 can only be filed by mail.
❓ How strong must the reasons be for travel?
- You are entitled to a travel document based on TPS status. Emergency reasons are not required. Emergency reasons allow requesting expedited processing.
⏺ FEE WAIVERS
❓ If I file I-912 for fee waiver, how much longer will it take to process?
- Processing I-912 usually takes 1–4 weeks.
❓ What are common reasons to waive fees?
- Usually, the simplest is having free medical insurance (Medicaid), food stamps, or other low-income benefits.
Other reasons, such as low income, are harder to prove.
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