On February 22, USCIS issued policy guidance to clarify the period of work authorization for F-1 nonimmigrant students experiencing severe economic hardship due to emergent circumstances.
- The guidance clarifies that “emergent circumstances” could include natural disasters, financial crises, and military conflicts.
- The guidance explains that an F-1 nonimmigrant student may receive a suspension of certain regulatory requirements, known as special student relief (SSR) work authorization.
Students who obtain SSR may be exempt from requirements that require a full course of study, work restrictions, and duration of status. However, a student who obtains SSR may not maintain work authorization past the student’s academic program date. SSR typically coincides with a Temporary Protected Status designation.
Erickson Insights
Erickson Immigration Group will continue to monitor developments and share updates as more news is available. Please contact your employer or EIG attorney if you have questions about anything we’re reporting above or case-specific questions.