Effects of Hurricane Harvey on USCIS offices, special measures offered for victims

In the wake of Hurricane Harvey, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has closed several of its Houston offices. Individuals affected by the storm may be eligible for special measures on a case-by-case basis.

Key points:

• USCIS has closed its Houston Field Office, Application Support Centers and Asylum Office through Sept. 5. Individuals should check the USCIS webpage for information about the updated closures and how to reschedule an appointment.
• Special measures, including change of status, extension of status, re-parole, expedited processing of advance parole, expedited processing of work authorization for F-1 students, replacement of damaged green cards or other travel documents, fee waivers, and other benefits may be available on a case-by-case basis. To request a special measure, individuals should call the National Customer Service Center at 800-375-5283.
• Employers and individuals are reminded that all Form I-9 requirements remain in place and should review instructions on how to verify employment eligibility of employees whose documents are lost or damaged.

This alert has been provided by the BAL U.S. Practice group. For additional information, please contact BerryApplemanLeiden@bal.com.

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