Jump to content

Disaster Relief and Immigration Status

From TexICApedia

This article tells you about concerns that may arise for your immigration status after a natural disaster and what steps to take next.

Composed by Texas RioGrande Legal Aid • Last updated December 28, 2022

Here, learn about what to do if you worry your immigration status is affected by a natural disaster and how to get help. This article covers issues such as document replacement, changing your address, and missing immigration deadlines or appointments. It also discusses the potential for foreign students to get employment authorization if their financial support has been impacted by a disaster.

Caution!

U.S. immigration laws, policies, and practices continue to change rapidly in 2026. Before making any decisions, consult an immigration attorney. One way to find an attorney is through the American Immigration Lawyers Association Find an Immigration Lawyer.

Can a disaster affect my immigration status?

A natural disaster can affect your United States Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) application, petition, or immigration status. If you are represented by an immigration attorney, contact them first for questions related to your immigration case.

I had to move because of the disaster. Do I need to file a change of address?

Yes. If you do not update your address, you may miss important updates and notices from USCIS about your case. If you have a pending application with USCIS, first notify your immigration attorney if you are represented.

You can update your address with USCIS by completing Form AR-11, Alien's Change of Address Card and submitting your change of address as directed by USCIS.

If you have an appeal pending with the Board of Immigration Appeals (BIA), notify your attorney. You must complete and file Form EOIR-33/BIA with the BIA. Get Form EOIR-33/BIA from the Executive Office for Immigration Review (EOIR).

Will accepting disaster relief affect my application for permanent resident status or a visa?

No. USCIS does not consider acceptance of emergency disaster relief to be public cash assistance that would affect the eligibility of you or your household members to become lawful permanent residents or to get a visa.

See USCIS information about public charge.

I missed my immigration deadline or appointment due to the disaster. What now?

If you have not appeared for an interview or submitted evidence, you may show how the disrupting event affected your connection to USCIS and your ability to appear or submit documents as required.

I am a foreign student whose financial support has been affected by a disaster. Can I get help?

You can't qualify for FEMA cash assistance, but you might qualify for Student Employment Authorization.

If a disaster has affected your ability to support yourself, you may need to work off campus. The disaster may occur in the United States and prevent you from working on campus, or the disaster may occur overseas and affect your economic support.

If you can show that you are from an affected country and you have been recommended for employment by the Designated School Official (DSO), you may be able to file Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization.

See the USCIS website for more information about special situations.

Get help

Disaster Relief for Immigrants

Disaster Relief for Immigrants

This article tells you about disaster relief programs available to immigrants and specific conditions that may need to be met.

Your Employment Rights During Disaster

Your Employment Rights During Disaster

This article tells you about your rights as an employee during and after a disaster.

Renters' Rights and Disaster Relief

Renters' Rights and Disaster Relief

This article explains your rights as a tenant after a disaster.

Sources

Retrieved from "http://texicapedia.org/index.php?title=Disaster_Relief_and_Immigration_Status&oldid=352"