U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) released a reminder about immigration services that may help people affected by unforeseen circumstances, including disasters such as hurricanes. USCIS said the following measures may be available on a case-by-case basis upon request:
- Changing nonimmigrant status or extending a nonimmigrant stay for an individual currently in the United States. Failure to apply for the extension or change before expiration of the authorized period of admission may be excused if the delay was due to extraordinary circumstances beyond the person’s control;
- Re-parole of individuals previously granted parole by USCIS;
- Expedited processing of advance parole requests;
- Expedited adjudication of requests for off-campus employment authorization for F-1 students experiencing severe economic hardship;
- Expedited adjudication of employment authorization applications, where appropriate;
- Consideration of fee waivers due to an inability to pay;
- Assistance for those who received a Request for Evidence or a Notice of Intent to Deny but were unable to submit evidence or otherwise respond in a timely manner;
- Assistance if a person was unable to appear for a scheduled interview with USCIS;
- Expedited replacement of lost or damaged immigration or travel documents issued by USCIS, such as a Permanent Resident Card (green card); and
- Rescheduling a biometrics appointment.
USCIS said that those making such requests should explain how the impact of a hurricane (or other disaster) created a need for the requested relief.
Related Links:
- The USCIS reminder, which includes information on how to make such a request.