In response to the enduring economic challenges faced by Venezuelan F-1 nonimmigrants due to the ongoing crisis in their home country, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced the extension of a crucial lifeline. A Federal Register notice has been published, renewing the suspension of employment authorization restrictions for eligible Venezuelan F-1 students, as well as those without nationality who previously resided in Venezuela. Originally set to expire on March 10, 2024, this accommodation has now been prolonged until September 10, 2025.

Under this policy extension, Venezuelan F-1 students experiencing severe economic hardship linked to the Venezuelan crisis can request employment authorization. Additionally, they are permitted to work an increased number of hours during the academic term and reduce their course load while still maintaining their F-1 nonimmigrant student status. Crucially, students obtaining employment authorization under this policy will be considered engaged in a “full course of study” as long as they adhere to the minimum course load requirements outlined in the Federal Register notice.

The DHS’s proactive measures align with the decision made in October 2023 to extend Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for Venezuela. This extension covers 18 months, starting from March 11, 2024, and concluding on September 10, 2025. Furthermore, Venezuela has been redesignated for TPS from October 3, 2023, to April 2, 2025, providing additional support and relief to those affected by the crisis.

For comprehensive details on the TPS designation and redesignation, interested parties are encouraged to refer to the DHS alert. This concerted effort seeks to address the unique challenges faced by Venezuelan F-1 nonimmigrants and underscores the commitment to providing them with necessary assistance during this period of crisis and uncertainty.

Source: Fragomen