Ukrainian Truckers in the U.S.: U4U Suspension and CDL Rule Changes Explained
Two policy moves in 2025 are colliding for thousands of Ukrainian truckers working in the United States: the suspension of Uniting for Ukraine (U4U) and a new federal rule that restricts non-domiciled Commercial Driver’s Licenses. This article explains what changed, who is affected, and what actions drivers can take now.
What changed with U4U
U4U provided two-year humanitarian parole to Ukrainians with a U.S. sponsor. As of January 2025, the program stopped accepting new applications and is not renewing residence or work permits, putting many at risk of falling out of status when their parole expires. Those who arrived after August 16, 2023 face the highest risk, while only those who arrived before that date may qualify for TPS protection.
Processing of U4U-related applications was paused in February 2025 and partially resumed after a court order in May 2025, but uncertainty remains for roughly 120,000 people who came under U4U.
What changed with non-domiciled CDLs
On September 26, 2025, the U.S. Department of Transportation announced an interim final rule that sharply limits who can hold a non-domiciled CDL. Previously, non-citizens with Employment Authorization Documents, including refugees, asylum seekers, and TPS or DACA holders, could obtain or renew non-domiciled CDLs if they met state requirements. The new rule eliminates EAD holders from eligibility and limits access primarily to short-term H-2A, H-2B, and E-2 visa holders. It also forces CDL expiration to match the I-94 date or one year, whichever is sooner.
Analysts estimate the rule will remove nearly 200,000 legally authorized non-domiciled CDL holders from the road within two years, in an industry already short tens of thousands of drivers.
Separate advocacy reporting notes the federal government encouraged states to downgrade or revoke affected non-domiciled CDLs, compounding job loss risk.
Legal challenge and comment period
Public interest groups and unions filed suit arguing the CDL rule is not a true emergency and will cause irreparable harm. While the rule is in effect, FMCSA is accepting public comments through November 28, 2025, and thousands have already been filed.
Why this uniquely hits Ukrainian truckers
Many Ukrainians under U4U became professional drivers after receiving work authorization. Now, two pressures stack up: potential loss of lawful presence if parole is not renewed and loss of CDL eligibility because EAD holders are excluded under the new rule. The result is an immediate threat to livelihoods and supply chain capacity at the same time.
Actionable steps for drivers
- Check your status timeline. Note your U4U parole end date and I-94 expiration. Your CDL renewal may be restricted to that date.
- Explore protection pathways. If eligible, apply for TPS, asylum, or other relief. VisitUkraine reports that applications and related benefits processing resumed in part after a May 2025 court order.
- Consult an immigration attorney. Personalized advice is essential given evolving rules.
- Submit a public comment. Share your story on the federal docket before November 28, 2025. Policymakers are reviewing thousands of comments already.
- Stay informed via advocacy groups. USCRI provides context on the rule’s impact and ongoing litigation status.
Industry impact in brief
Foreign-born drivers account for a significant share of the workforce, and removing non-domiciled drivers will stress capacity, raise turnover pressure, and slow freight velocity. Independent analysis also notes FMCSA has not shown a causal link between non-domiciled status and highway safety outcomes.
Where MigWay stands
MigWay operates as a modern, asset-based carrier focused on safety, compliance, and people. We will continue to monitor policy changes and direct affected drivers to reputable legal resources. If you are a qualified CDL-A OTR driver, we encourage you to stay in touch with our recruiting team regarding compliant opportunities across our lanes.
Frequently Asked Questions
1) What is U4U and why does its suspension matter to truckers?
U4U granted two-year humanitarian parole with work authorization. Suspension in January 2025 and non-renewal of permits mean many Ukrainians may lose status as their parole ends, which directly jeopardizes their ability to work and renew CDLs.
2) What is a non-domiciled CDL?
It is a CDL issued by a state to an individual who resides permanently in another country. Most states issue them, historically to workers with valid EADs who met state requirements.
3) Who can get a non-domiciled CDL under the new rule?
Primarily H-2A, H-2B, and E-2 visa holders with valid I-94 and passport. EAD holders, including many refugees and parolees, are no longer eligible.
4) How many drivers could lose their livelihoods?
Analysts estimate almost 200,000 non-domiciled CDL holders could be pushed off the road within two years, an estimated five percent of the CDL workforce.
5) Is there a chance the rule gets paused?
Unions and public interest groups have sued to delay the rule, arguing it is not a genuine emergency. The court will decide, and FMCSA is taking comments through November 28, 2025.
6) What should Ukrainian drivers do right now?
Confirm your timeline, talk to an immigration attorney, evaluate TPS or asylum where eligible, and submit a comment to FMCSA. Stay updated through credible advocacy resources.