Summary
On January 29, 2024 the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) extended Special Student Relief (SSR) to F-1 students from Syria through September 30, 2025. The original SSR notice was set to expire on April 01, 2024.
What is Special Student Relief?
Special Student Relief (SSR) is the suspension of specific immigration regulations for F-1 students who face unexpected hardship due to a situation in their home country. SSR typically provides eligible students flexibilities related to employment and enrollment requirements. This particular notice suspends applicable on-campus and off-campus employment regulations as well as full-time enrollment requirements.
Who is eligible for the SSR extended to students from Syria?
Per the DHS Notice, this extension of SSR applies to F-1 students who:
- Are citizens of Syria regardless of country of birth (or individuals having no nationality who last habitually resided in Syria);
- Are lawfully present in the United States in an F-1 nonimmigrant status on the date of publication of this notice;
- Are enrolled in a Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified school;
- Are currently maintaining F-1 nonimmigrant status; and
- Are experiencing severe economic hardship as a direct result of the current armed conflict and humanitarian crisis.
How do I apply for SSR?
If you are interested in applying for Special Student Relief, please reach out to us through the Contact ISS form.