September 9, 2005

Update From DOS And DHS on Visa Issues Related to Hurricane Katrina Including Guidance for Exchange Visitors and Students

On September 9, 2005, the Department of State (“DOS”) notified U.S. Consular Posts with instructions on how to handle visa issues related to Hurricane Katrina. In particular, the DOS provided guidance on J-1 exchange visitors and F and M students applying for visa. Specifically, J-1 exchange students whose exchange program has been disrupted by Hurricane Katrina were instructed to contact their program sponsor. F or M students studying at schools affected by the hurricane should contact their school official. If the school official is unavailable, they must contact the SEVIS office at 202-305-2346 or by email at SEVIS.source@dhs.gov. Students should provide the SEVIS office with their name, date of birth, SEVIS identification number and their school information. There is also a frequently asked questions section on the SEVIS website which is located at www.ice.gov/SEVIS.

New F or M students unable to contact their school before the report date (block 5 of I-20) will receive a new report date and a new I-20 if the school is operational. If the school is not operational and students would like to attend a new school, they must contact the new school directly and obtain a new I-20. No SEVIS fee will be required, but students must obtain a new visa with the new school’s name annotated on it. The MRV fee will be waived.

In addition, the DOS instructed Posts to accept emergency requests for visa appointments for family members of Katrina victims. Requests for emergency appointments are limited to immediate family members of Hurricane Katrina victims. The DOS also instructed Posts to refer visa applicants searching for family members to the “safe persons” lists compiled by FEMA at http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic.