Mark A Ivener, A Law Corporation

USCIS Announces Relief for Japanese, Pacific Nationals Stranded in U.S. Following Quake, Tsunami


U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services announced on March 11, 2011, the following relief for Japanese and other nationals from the Pacific stranded in the U.S. due to the earthquake and tsunami disasters in Japan:

This advisory is for Japanese and other foreign nationals from the Pacific stranded in the United States due to the earthquakes and tsunami devastation. If you have exceeded or are about to exceed your authorized stay in the U.S. you may be permitted up to an additional 30 days to depart.

Visitors traveling under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP):

  • If you are at an airport, contact the U.S. Customs and Border Protection office at the airport
  • All others, please visit the local U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office

Visitors traveling under a nonimmigrant visa:

  • Visit the local U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services office
  • Bring your passport, evidence that you are stranded (such as an itinerary for the cancelled flight), and your I-94 departure record

See also, USCIS Special Situations Web Page for more info.

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Mark A. Ivener, A Law Corporation, a nationally recognized law firm, has successfully assisted hundreds of clients in immigration matters.