In late February, Russia invaded Ukraine and a number of world leaders acted to support Ukraine. The United States is one of the countries that has offered support to Ukrainians who have been displaced.
The State of Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has the second largest population of Ukrainians in a US state. As a result the Governor of Pennsylvania, Tom Wolf has announced his support for the country and he himself would take action to support the country of Ukraine. More specifically he showed his support of state specific legislation to divest all public funds from Russia and supported additional legislation to provide $2 million in funds from the state to support Ukrainians who have been displaced because of the war and the opportunity to come to Pennsylvania.
Department of Homeland Security
In other areas like the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), announced on March 3, 2022 that Ukraine would be allowed Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months. TPS gives foreign nationals who are eligible the opportunity to live and work (in some cases) in the United States for a limited period of time. Ukraine now joins other countries like El Salvador, Haiti, Honduras, Liberia, Nepal, Nicaragua, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Syria and Yemen on the TPS list.
The DHS Secretary Alejandro N. Mayorkas stated “Russia’s premeditated and unprovoked attack on Ukraine has resulted in an ongoing war, senseless violence, and Ukrainians forced to seek refuge in other countries. In these extraordinary times, we will continue to offer our support and protection to Ukrainian nationals in the United States.”
It is likely that as a country we will see many Ukrainians arriving in the United States over the coming weeks for safe harbor. Likely many will end up in Pennsylvania as a result of the governor making funding available. Those fleeing the war in Ukraine will be greeted with policies that have been created to help them in a time of need.
If you or someone you know is affected by the War in Ukraine, reach out to an immigration lawyer today. It is important to protect yourself and know your options. Call the Gambacorta Law Office today at 847 908 4913 for a free consultation. Our team is ready to fight for you.