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.
Hurricane-Specific Resources
Hurricane Florence - 2018
- SEVP Hurricane Florence Response Page
- FEMA Hurricane Florence Page
- DHS September 14, 2018 Statement: "In consideration of these circumstances, there will be no immigration enforcement initiatives associated with evacuations or sheltering related to Florence, except in the event of a serious public safety threat."
Hurricane Irma - 2017
- SEVP Hurricane Irma Response Page
- DHS Statement Regarding Safety and Enforcement During Hurricane Irma
- Take Action: Heed Warnings from Local Officials in Hurricane Irma’s Path
- Hurricane Irma Preparations Ongoing as Recovery in Texas and Louisiana Continues
- FEMA Hurricane Irma Page - Includes key safety tips
Hurricane Harvey - 2017
- SEVP "Response to Hurricane Harvey: What Students Should Do"
- Joint ICE and CBP Statement Concerning Hurricane Harvey
- USCIS: Immigration measures useful for those affected by Hurricane Harvey
- FEMA Hurricane Harvey Page - Includes key safety tips
- IRS: Tax Relief for Victims of Hurricane Harvey in Texas
- Department of Education Hurricane Harvey Page
General Resources
- 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