Factors Influencing Ukrainian Parolees’ Decision to Migrate in the U.S.

Abstract

The outbreak of the Russo-Ukrainian war has caused a massive influx of Ukrainian refugees into the U.S. To address this, President Biden implemented the Uniting for Ukraine program which provides a pathway for Ukrainian refugees and their families to temporarily stay in the U.S. for a two-year period of parole.  The question arises, will Ukrainian parolees’ decide to stay or leave the U.S. after two years? This study attempts to better understand the factors that are influencing Ukrainian parolees’ intentions to decide whether to stay or leave the U.S. The study surveyed parolees to gather data on their intentions. The findings provide convincing evidence that the majority of respondents indicated that they intend to stay in the U.S. The key factors influencing those who wish to stay include traveling as a group, family members in the US, the ongoing war, other family reasons, and finances. Those who intended to leave were influenced by factors such as family in Ukraine, culture, the ongoing war, and financial reasons. The results of the study can inform future policies toward refugee groups in the U.S. and further the field of migration studies.