U4U program for Ukrainians: how to get permission to enter, work and support in the USA

Many Ukrainians face difficulties in preparing documents for participation in the United for Ukraine (U4U) program, in particular due to the complex application process and the need to comply with clear deadlines and requirements. The program, launched in 2022, aims to support Ukrainians affected by the war and provides an opportunity to live and work in the US for a certain period. What are the conditions for participation in the United for Ukraine (U4U) program in 2024 and how can Ukrainians get to the United States by fulfilling all the requirements correctly?

What is the U4U program?

“United for Ukraine” (United for Ukraine, or U4U) is a special program initiated by the US government to support Ukrainians who have become victims of military operations. This initiative allows Ukrainians and their relatives living outside the United States to legally enter the country, obtain work permits, medical care and access to social services for two years.

One of the main requirements for participation in the program is the presence of a sponsor in the US who is willing to take financial responsibility for the new arrival. The sponsor must provide housing, help with adaptation and, if necessary, cover basic living expenses.

The main advantages of the U4U program for Ukrainians

1. Legal residence and employment. Program participants receive a work permit that allows them to legally work in the United States.
2. Financial support. Some program participants can receive one-time financial assistance for the first needs after moving.
3. Medical support. Program participants have access to health services, including basic care and emergency care.
4. Access to education. Ukrainians can study in American educational institutions, which opens up new opportunities for development and integration.
5. The possibility of moving with the family. The program allows immediate family members, such as a spouse or children under 21, to be brought to the United States.

Requirements for participation in the U4U program in 2024

In order to become a participant of the program, it is necessary to meet certain criteria:

1. Residence in Ukraine after February 11, 2022. You had to live in the territory of Ukraine at that moment and leave the country due to military operations.
2. Stay outside the US. You must be outside the United States at the time of application.
3. Availability of a valid foreign passport. Your passport must be valid at the time of application.

How to apply for U4U

The application process is multi-stage and requires a careful approach to the preparation of documents. Here is a step-by-step guide to successfully completing all stages:

1. Find a sponsor. The first step is to find a sponsor in the US. A sponsor can be anyone who is a legal resident of the United States and is willing to assume financial responsibility for you. It can be a relative, a friend or even an organization that supports Ukrainians.
2. Complete Form I-134. The sponsor must file Form I-134 (“Declaration of Financial Support”), indicating their willingness to provide financial support. The document is submitted online through a special USCIS (US Citizenship and Immigration Services) portal.
3. Application for participation. Once your support is confirmed, you will be given a unique access code to apply for the U4U program. Fill out the online form with your personal details and information about relatives traveling with you.
4. Waiting for a decision. After submitting your application, you will have to wait for a decision. This process usually takes several weeks to several months. If approved, you will be granted entry into the United States for a specified period of time.
5. Passing a medical examination. Before leaving for the United States, you will need to undergo a medical examination at designated clinics and obtain relevant certificates.
6. Preparation for moving. After receiving your entry permit, you must complete all the preparatory procedures, including obtaining medical insurance, finding accommodation and preparing for travel.

How to become a sponsor under the U4U program

A sponsor can be any person who:

1. Legally resides in the USA. US citizens, residents or persons with valid visas may be sponsors.
2. Financially able to provide support. The sponsor must confirm his ability to provide housing and financial support for the Ukrainian or his family during the period of adaptation in the USA.
3. Filled out form I-134. This document confirms the sponsor’s obligation to provide the newcomer with financial support.

Tips for successfully obtaining permission to participate in the program

1. Prepare the documents carefully. Ensure that all documents are fully compliant and submitted in the correct format.
2. Check your answers. Inaccuracies or uncertain answers in the interview may result in rejection of the program.
3. Find a sponsor in advance. Since finding a sponsor can take a long time, start the process as early as possible.
4. Consider submission deadlines. Keep an eye on deadlines and application deadlines to avoid missing important steps.

The U4U program is a great opportunity for Ukrainians seeking safety and stability in the United States. Proper paperwork and thorough compliance with all requirements will help you get permission to move faster and start a new life in the United States.