The "Protecting Our Guests During Hostilities in Ukraine Act" grants temporary "Ukrainian guest status" to eligible individuals paroled into the U.S. under the Uniting for Ukraine program, allowing them to work until 120 days after hostilities in Ukraine end, unless deemed a security risk.
Richard Durbin
Senator
IL
The "Protecting Our Guests During Hostilities in Ukraine Act" establishes a "Ukrainian guest status" for individuals paroled into the U.S. under the Uniting for Ukraine program, allowing them to work in the U.S. This status begins from their initial parole date and expires 120 days after the Secretary of State determines it is safe for civilians to return to Ukraine, but can be revoked by Homeland Security if the individual poses a security risk.
Ukrainians Paroled into U.S. Get Temporary Legal Status, Work Permits Under New Bill
The "Protecting Our Guests During Hostilities in Ukraine Act" gives Ukrainians who entered the U.S. under the Uniting for Ukraine program a temporary legal status called "Ukrainian guest status." This status starts from the date they were originally paroled into the country and allows them to work here legally.
Making it Official
This bill directly addresses the limbo many Ukrainians face. Instead of the usual parolee status, which can be legally murky, they get a clear "Ukrainian guest status." This new status is retroactive to their original entry date (SEC. 3). It's a straightforward fix, cutting through potential red tape. The bill defines "eligible alien" specifically as someone paroled under the Uniting for Ukraine program announced on April 21, 2022 (SEC. 2).
Work and Stay (For Now)
Under this status, Ukrainians can legally work in the U.S. (SEC. 3). This is big – it means they can support themselves and contribute to the economy while they're here. It's a practical move, recognizing that people need to earn a living, regardless of their long-term plans. This helps not just the individuals, but also any U.S. business that hires them.
The Clock is Ticking
The temporary status lasts until 120 days after the Secretary of State determines that hostilities in Ukraine have ended and it's safe for civilians to return (SEC. 3). That's a specific timeframe, tied to a real-world condition. It acknowledges that this isn't a permanent solution, but a response to an ongoing crisis. The Secretary of Homeland Security can revoke this status if someone is deemed a security risk, referencing section 241(b)(3)(B) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (SEC. 3). This is a security measure, ensuring that the program isn't misused.
Real-World Impact
Imagine a Ukrainian software developer who fled the war and arrived under the Uniting for Ukraine program. This bill means they can immediately start working for a U.S. tech company, paying taxes, and building a temporary life here. Or consider a family where one member was working in a skilled trade. They can now legally work in construction, filling labor needs and providing for their family. This bill provides immediate, tangible benefits to those who qualify, while also adding a layer of security and a clear end date tied to conditions on the ground in Ukraine.