What is U4U?

U4U stands for Uniting for Ukraine. It’s a program started by the U.S. government in April 2022 to help Ukrainians who had to leave their country because of the war with Russia. Through U4U, Ukrainians could come to the U.S. for up to 2 years under something called humanitarian parole. But to come, they needed a sponsor in the U.S. — someone who promised to support them with housing, money, and other help.

More info here: Uniting for Ukraine

Is U4U still open?
As of January 27, 2025, the U.S. government paused (stopped) taking new U4U applications. They are reviewing the program and might make changes. Details here: U4U Applications Paused

What if someone is already in the U.S. through U4U?

If someone is already here through U4U, they may be able to extend their stay by applying for something called re-parole. They need to fill out Form I-131, but only within 180 days before their current parole ends.

Details on how to apply: Re-Parole for Ukrainians

Important: U4U does not give a green card or U.S. citizenship. It’s temporary. Ukrainians in the U.S. should look into other options like Temporary Protected Status (TPS) to stay longer legally. More info: New Relief Options for Ukrainians

Can U4U apply for a change of status to F-1 inside the U.S.? Technically, yes, a person on U4U humanitarian parole can submit an application to change to F-1 status using Form I-539. However… In practice, it is very difficult and often denied. Why? 1. Humanitarian parole is not a "visa status" — it’s a special permission to be in the U.S. temporarily. 2. USCIS has often treated parolees as ineligible to change to certain nonimmigrant statuses, like F-1, because: F-1 requires nonimmigrant intent (you must show you do not plan to stay permanently). Humanitarian parole is often linked with a humanitarian crisis — which implies you might not return home. 3. There have been many reports of denials when parolees try to change to F-1 from inside the U.S. So while the law allows filing, the approval odds are low.

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