Immigration Relief Options for Nepal Nationals Impacted by the Recent Disaster

After the recent earthquake in Nepal, our office is receiving a number of inquiries by Nepali nationals regarding relief options and alternatives in various U.S. immigration situations.   USCIS has also indicated that they would provide relief in a number of situations understanding that a disaster may affect the ability of an individual to maintain status in the U.S. or to otherwise comply with the relevant immigration regulations.

As a result, there are a number of options for Nepali nationals who are impacted by the recent disaster.   Please note that other foreign nationals may also be able to claim relief under these options if they can show that their ability to comply with immigration regulations has been impacted by the disaster.

Application to Extend (or Change) Status from within the U.S.

Nepali nationals can now obtain relief by having an application for extension or change of status approved after such application is filed after the authorized period of admission has expired.

Advance Parole – Expediting and Extending

USCIS permits re-parole of individuals already granted parole.  Also, extension of certain parole grants and expedited processing of advance parole applications is available.

Employment Authorization

USCIS would allow expedited adjudication and approval, where possible, of requests for off-campus employment authorization for F-1 students experiencing severe economic hardship.  As a result, Nepali students who are on F-1 status and would otherwise qualify for financial hardship EAD work permit can apply to do so on the basis of the disaster.   Similarly, USCIS would review favorably expedited processing of other pending EAD applications.

Fee Waivers

USCIS would entertain requests to have certain immigration fees waived based on the applicant’s inability to pay or similar hardship.

Immediate Relatives Immigrant Petitions

USCIS may permit expedited processing of immigrant petitions for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents (LPRs) where either the petitioner or the beneficiary are Nepali nationals impacted by the recent events.

Foreign Assistance to LPRs Stranded Overseas

USCIS and Department of State are also willing to provide assistance to Lawful Permanent Residents (LPR) who are stranded overseas without immigration documents such as green cards.

Immigration Relief Options Are Not a Temporary Protected Status

We would like to add that these immigration relief options are not equivalent to a measure granting protetion from removal and work authorization such as Temporary Protected Status (TPS).     For example, the announced relief measures do not allow Nepali nationals who are in the U.S. without status to obtain status.   Similarly, the relief measures to not grant a right to a work permit (perhaps with the exception of F-1 EAD based on hardship).    We know that USCIS is considering a number of requests for introducing a TPS for Nepali nationals but such relief has not been granted yet and at this time we do not know if TPS will be granted to Nepali nationals.

Conclusion

We applaud USCIS’ willingness to accommodate the needs of certain Nepali nationals who are impacted by the earthquake.   Our office stands ready to assist affected Nepali nationals who need help with their immigration options.  Please contact us for a free initial consultation and analysis of your options.