Every year, natural disasters like hurricanes, wildfires, and earthquakes disrupt normal activities due to evacuations, loss of life, and extensive damage to property. Academic institutions located in affected areas may be unable to operate normally, or at all, during the current academic term. As a result of a natural disaster, students and scholars may also experience difficulty in satisfying the normal regulatory requirements for maintaining valid status, including reporting requirements and the pursuit of a “full course of study.” The following resources can help institutions, students, and scholars affected by such emergencies and natural disasters.
General Resources
- NAFSA Explanation of the USCIS Special Situations Page
- Responding to a Natural Disaster in a Student's/Scholar's institution within the U.S. - By the NAFSA KC ISSS Crisis Management Subcommittee
- Immigrants and Disaster Assistance - By the National Immigration Law Center (NILC)
- Continuity of Operations Planning for SEVP-Approved Schools
- Study in the States: Maintain F and M Status in Emergency Events
- SEVP Message - Students: Prepare for Emergencies During Hurricane Season
- General SEVIS Reporting Requirements for Designated School Officials
- Transfers for F-1 Students
- Maintaining Student Status when an SEVP-Certified School Closes (73kb
) - USCIS general statement on special situations that can affect USCIS applications, petitions, or immigration status
- IRS: Tax Relief in Disaster Situations
- Helping Children After a Natural Disaster - WETA Public Broadcasting