Relief for People Affected by Severe Earthquakes

USCIS announced limited relief for people that have been affected by the recent earthquakes in Japan, Ecuador, and Burma. USCIS has softened some of their rules in certain cases when demonstrating need based on the earthquakes. Some examples of relief include:

• Changing or extending status in certain cases, even if status may have already expired
• Re-parole if previously granted parole
• Expedited handling of certain travel documents
• Expedited handling of certain types of work permits
• Larger consideration for fee waivers on certain applications
• Extended deadlines in responding to certain requests from USCIS

People needing assistance in these areas should contact their attorney. If not represented, they should contact USCIS or an attorney for appropriate legal advice.