In order to provide Ukrainian and Afghan parolees with the same benefits that are given to refugees under the immigration laws, USCIS has decided that Ukrainian and Afghan parolees are eligible for employment authorization immediately upon entering the United States. Parole is the legal term for allowing someone to temporarily enter the United States even though he/she may not have a visa or be otherwise eligible for admission.

This policy is effective as of November 21, 2022, and enables certain Ukrainian and Afghan parolees (and their qualifying family members) to begin working immediately, and without applying for employment authorization from USCIS.  Eligible individuals will be able to show an unexpired I-94 to their employers to document their employment eligibility. This new policy provides a welcome and much needed benefit to many Ukrainian and Afghan nationals who have recently fled their home countries. For more information regarding eligibility for this new policy, please contact us for a consultation.