Does the U4U program work in the USA: what has changed in 2025 for Ukrainians who want to go to the USA?

In 2025, many Ukrainians are asking: does the U4U program work, how to apply for Uniting for Ukraine, are there alternatives, and what support Ukrainians in the US can get. In this guide, we explain what has changed in the US migration program for Ukrainians, what opportunities Ukrainians in America have to stay in the country in 2025, how TPS status works, what visas are available, and how to get legal help for Ukrainians

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The U4U (Uniting for Ukraine) program in the USA is one of the most popular initiatives that allowed thousands of Ukrainians to find temporary shelter in the USA during a full-scale war. However, as of 2025, US immigration law has changed quite a bit, which is why many people are asking questions: is the U4U program working now, is it possible to apply for U4U, what are the alternatives, and what support can Ukrainians in the USA really get?

In this article, we will explain: what is the current status of the program to help Ukrainians in the USA, who is still eligible to participate, what is TPS and how is it related to U4U, what are the options for entering the USA in 2025 for Ukrainians.

Don't know how to act? Contact lawyers Visit Ukraine and get answers to all your questions!

What is the U4U program?

Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) is a special migration program for Ukrainians in the USA, launched in April 2022 in response to Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine. Its main goal is to provide temporary safe haven for Ukrainians who are forced to flee the war.

The program provided for:

- The possibility of temporary humanitarian stay in the United States for a period of up to 2 years.

- The mandatory presence of a sponsor in the United States who declares to support the Ukrainian during his stay.

- An expedited application process through the online I-134A form.

- Employment Authorization (EAD) upon arrival in the United States.

Eligible for participation were citizens of Ukraine and their family members who were outside the United States, had a foreign passport and could find a person or organization in the United States ready to act as a sponsor.

The U4U program became a real opportunity for many Ukrainians to travel to the United States in 2022-2024, receive protection, adapt and find new opportunities. But what about it now? Does the U4U program work in 2025?

Does the U4U program work in 2025?

As of July 2025, the U4U program 2025 is temporarily suspended for new applicants. This was officially announced by the US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). The reason is to review the effectiveness of the program and consider new security and sponsorship criteria.

Can I submit a new application for U4U?

It is currently impossible to submit an application for U4U. Form I-134A, which was used to initiate the process, is not being accepted until further notice. However, the US government emphasizes that this is only a temporary suspension, not a complete cancellation of the program.

What about those who have already received U4U authorization?

Although the program is currently suspended, support for Ukrainians in the United States does not stop - the government and non-governmental organizations continue to provide assistance to those already in the country.

For Ukrainians who have already entered the USA under the Uniting for Ukraine program, the following rules apply:

- Humanitarian permit remains valid for the period specified in the documents (usually 2 years);

- They can extend the status through other available programs, in particular through TPS or asylum;

It is important to take care of your migration status in time to avoid the risks of deportation or loss of legal stay.

Legalization options for Ukrainians after the end of U4U status in the USA in this article. Ways to stay in the USA after Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) for Ukrainians with a humanitarian password at the link.

If you are not sure about your situation or do not know where to start - contact the migration lawyers of Visit Ukraine. Our legal assistance for Ukrainians includes consulting, situation analysis and preparation of documents - we will help you stay in the USA legally.

What is TPS and can I get it now?

Temporary Protected Status (TPS) is a special protective status granted to citizens of certain countries who, due to ongoing armed conflict, environmental disaster, or other dangerous circumstances determined by the US Department of State, cannot return to their homeland.

Ukrainians are also eligible to receive TPS. The US Department of Homeland Security has officially extended the Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for citizens of Ukraine until October 19, 2026.

You are eligible to receive TPS if you are a citizen of Ukraine and entered the United States on or before August 16, 2023, have been a permanent resident of the country, and have not had serious problems with the law. You can apply for TPS even if you are in the United States on a tourist visa, humanitarian visa (including through the Uniting for Ukraine program), applying for political asylum, or even in the process of deportation.

TPS status allows Ukrainians in America in 2025 to legally stay in the country, obtain a work permit, provide education for children at school, and also travel outside the country with subsequent return subject to obtaining a departure permit (TPS Travel Authorization) from the migration service.

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How can a Ukrainian legally move to the USA in 2025?

In 2025, Ukrainians have the right to enter the USA, but more on general grounds. How can Ukrainians travel to the USA in 2025? To legally enter the USA, every foreigner must obtain an appropriate visa. American visas are divided into two main types:

- Non-immigrant visas - for temporary stay for the purpose of study, tourism, work or participation in exchange programs.

- Immigrant visas - for those who plan to move to the USA for permanent residence.

Nonimmigrant Visas Available to Ukrainians

Here are the main types of nonimmigrant visas that Ukrainians can obtain:

- Business and Travel Visa (B-1/B-2) – for visiting relatives, sightseeing, attending conferences, or for short-term medical treatment.

- Student Visa (F-1) – for studying at universities, colleges, or language schools in the United States.

- Exchange Program Participant Visa (J-1) – for cultural, educational, and professional exchanges between countries.

- Crew Member Visa (C1/D) – for individuals working on sea or air vessels.

- Fiancé Visa (K-1) – for foreign fiancés of U.S. citizens who plan to get married in the country.

- Temporary Employment Visa (H-1B) – for highly skilled professionals with higher education and professional experience.

To enter the USA, you must have health insurance that covers the main risks during your stay. The lack of an insurance policy may result in refusal of entry.

Visit Ukraine offers a wide range of reliable insurance programs that meet US requirements and protect your health during your trip and stay.

Learn more about the features of the US healthcare system and in what cases foreigners are required to follow the link.

Immigrant visa - the path to permanent residence in the USA

An immigrant visa opens the opportunity to move to the USA for permanent residence with the right to further legalization and citizenship.

The main ways to obtain an immigrant visa in the USA:

- Winning the Green Card Lottery (Diversity Visa Program) - every year up to 50,000 visas are drawn among citizens of countries with low levels of immigration to the USA. The 2026 lottery is already open, and Ukrainians can apply.

- Work visas with the possibility of immigration - employer sponsorship for highly qualified specialists (E1, E2, E3, E4).

- Investment and business (EB-5 visa) – for investors who invest from 800,000 to 1,050,000 USD in the development of the US economy and create jobs.

- Family reunification – sponsorship of close relatives who are citizens or permanent residents of the US.

- Application for political asylum – for those who are persecuted or in danger due to political, religious or other motives.

More details on how Ukrainians can travel to the USA in 2025 in our material.

Read here how to get a B1 business visa to the USA if you are a Ukrainian with temporary protection status in the EU.

If you are planning a trip or move to the USA in 2025, contact the migration lawyers of Visit Ukraine – we will suggest the best option, help with documents and provide legal support at every step.

Reminder! A federal court has ordered the US government to resume processing refugee applications under humanitarian programs, including Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) for Ukrainians. We have already told you what has changed for refugees in the US.

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