Location: Ukraine
Event: The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) Program, Uniting for Ukraine Guidance for U.S. Citizens
The Russian invasion of Ukraine has created over 6 million Ukrainian refugees. Ukrainians worldwide are seeking means to find safety, security, and stability. On April 21, 2022, President Biden announced Uniting for Ukraine, a process to provide Ukrainian citizens who have fled Russia’s unprovoked and unjustified invasion opportunities to come to the United States and stay temporarily for up to two years. Uniting for Ukraine can serve as a means for U.S. citizens to support their Ukrainian friends and family members who want to come to the United States.
To be eligible for this program, Ukrainians require a supporter in the United States who agrees to provide them with financial support for the duration of their stay. In addition, children under the age of 18 must be traveling to the United States in the care and custody of their parent(s) or legal guardian.
For complete details on eligibility and requirements, please see the Department of Homeland Security Uniting for Ukraine web page.
Actions to Take: · Visit the U.S. Embassy in Kyiv’s webpage to view the most recent safety and security alerts for U.S. citizens.
- Regularly monitor local and international news and social media news channels.
- Ensure travel documents are valid and easily accessible.
- Review your personal security plans and always have a contingency plan in place that does not rely on U.S. government assistance.
- Get a COVID vaccine to facilitate your travel. Enroll in the Department of State’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). STEP enrollment gives you the latest security updates and makes it easier for the U.S. Embassy to contact you in an emergency.
- Regularly monitor the State Department’s website for current Travel Advisories. Read the Country Specific Information for Ukraine. For additional information, refer to the “Traveler’s Checklist” on the State Department’s website.
- Please see information on What the Department of State Can and Can’t Do in a Crisis.
For Assistance:
- Call 1-888-407-4747 (in the United States) or 1-202-501-4444 (from overseas); or ·
Email KyivACS@state.gov.
