Many Ukrainian refugees in the United States were left shocked this week after receiving emails mistakenly informing them that their legal status had been revoked and they had just seven days to leave the country or face removal by the federal government.
The emails, sent by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), warned recipients: “If you do not depart the United States immediately, you will be subject to potential law enforcement actions that will result in your removal from the United States. Again, DHS is terminating your parole. Do not attempt to remain in the United States.”
A Department of Homeland Security (DHS) spokesperson confirmed on Friday that the emails had been sent in error and reassured the Ukrainian community that the humanitarian parole program remains in place. The program was launched following the start of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, providing refuge for those fleeing the turmoil.
“We deeply regret the confusion and distress this error has caused,” the DHS spokesperson said. “The terms of your parole as originally issued remain unchanged at this time.”
One Ukrainian refugee, who wished to remain anonymous, described her emotional response upon receiving the email. “I couldn’t breathe normally and was uncontrollably crying,” she said. Having renewed her immigration status last August and being told it was valid for another two years, she was at a loss to understand the sudden revocation. “I don’t have as much as a parking ticket, don’t post on social media,” she added.
The incident highlights the anxieties faced by refugees navigating complex immigration systems in a foreign country. Advocacy groups are calling for more support and clearer communication from immigration authorities to prevent such distressing mistakes in the future.
