The statement "u4u can't move to another status" is partially correct, depending on the timing and context. Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) parolees, like those who have come to the US through the U4U program, are technically not allowed to directly switch to another non-immigrant status like student or work visas without going through a consular application process abroad. However, they can apply for other lawful statuses like TPS or asylum, and upon approval, they can transition to other forms of legal status.
Elaboration:
No direct change of status: U4U parolees, a temporary form of entry, are not considered a lawful immigration status themselves. Therefore, they cannot simply "change" to another non-immigrant status while remaining in the US.
Paths to other statuses: U4U parolees can apply for other forms of immigration relief, such as TPS (Temporary Protected Status) or asylum.
TPS: If approved for TPS, individuals can adjust to a green card through I-485.
Asylum: If granted asylum, individuals can apply for a green card after one year.
Suspension of applications: As of January 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has suspended processing for certain immigration applications filed by individuals who arrived in the US through sponsorship programs, including U4U. This means that while USCIS officers can still work on applications already filed, they are not allowed to approve any decisions.
Risk of removal: If an U4U parolee's parole period expires and they do not have another lawful status, they could be subject to removal from the country.
Consulting an attorney: It's crucial for individuals to consult with an immigration attorney to understand the best course of action for their specific situation and explore all available options.
The statement "u4u can't move to another status" is partially correct, depending on the timing and context. Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) parolees, like those who have come to the US through the U4U program, are technically not allowed to directly switch to another non-immigrant status like student or work visas without going through a consular application process abroad. However, they can apply for other lawful statuses like TPS or asylum, and upon approval, they can transition to other forms of legal status. Elaboration: No direct change of status: U4U parolees, a temporary form of entry, are not considered a lawful immigration status themselves. Therefore, they cannot simply "change" to another non-immigrant status while remaining in the US. Paths to other statuses: U4U parolees can apply for other forms of immigration relief, such as TPS (Temporary Protected Status) or asylum. TPS: If approved for TPS, individuals can adjust to a green card through I-485. Asylum: If granted asylum, individuals can apply for a green card after one year. Suspension of applications: As of January 2025, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has suspended processing for certain immigration applications filed by individuals who arrived in the US through sponsorship programs, including U4U. This means that while USCIS officers can still work on applications already filed, they are not allowed to approve any decisions. Risk of removal: If an U4U parolee's parole period expires and they do not have another lawful status, they could be subject to removal from the country. Consulting an attorney: It's crucial for individuals to consult with an immigration attorney to understand the best course of action for their specific situation and explore all available options.