The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has extended special relief for certain Haitian F-1 students who have suffered severe economic hardship as a direct result of the January 12, 2010 earthquake. This relief allows eligible Haitian F-1 students to obtain employment authorization, work an increased number of hours during the school term, and, if necessary, receive a reduced course load while maintaining F-1 student status.

The original notice was effective from September 15, 2010, until July 22, 2011, with an 18-month extension from July 22, 2011, until January 22, 2013. This subsequent notice will give an additional 18-month extension from January 22, 2013, through July 22, 2014. DHS will consider these students engaged in a full course of study for the duration of their employment authorization:

• Granted employment authorization under this notice
• Maintaining the minimum course load requirement

To qualify for this notice, a Haitian F-1 student must meet the following qualifications:

• Was lawfully present in the United States in F-1 student status on January 12, 2010
• Is enrolled in a Student and Exchange Visitor Program-certified school
• Is maintaining status
• Is suffering severe economic hardship

Because the people of Haiti continue to struggle from the January 2010 earthquake, the United States is committed to helping the Haitian people.

For more information, please visit the Federal Register Notice.