Employment Authorization for Sudanese F-1 Nonimmigrant Students Experiencing Severe Economic Hardship as a Direct Result of the Current Crisis in Sudan, 56857-56864 [2023-17871]
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this notice and does not otherwise
violate the student’s nonimmigrant
status, included as provided under 8
CFR 214.1(g), the nonimmigrant will be
able to maintain compliance
requirements for F–1 nonimmigrant
student status while having TPS.
When a student applies simultaneously
for TPS and benefits under this notice,
what is the minimum course load
requirement while an application for
employment authorization is pending?
The F–1 nonimmigrant student must
maintain normal course load
requirements for a ‘‘full course of
study’’ 36 unless or until the
nonimmigrant student receives
employment authorization under this
notice. TPS-related employment
authorization, by itself, does not
authorize a nonimmigrant student to
drop below twelve credit hours, or
otherwise applicable minimum
requirements (e.g., clock hours for nontraditional academic programs). Once
approved for a TPS-related EAD and
Special Student Relief employment
authorization, as indicated by the DSO’s
required entry in SEVIS and issuance of
an updated Form I–20 , the F–1
nonimmigrant student may drop below
twelve credit hours, or otherwise
applicable minimum requirements (with
a minimum of six semester or quarter
hours of instruction per academic term
if at the undergraduate level, or for a
minimum of three semester or quarter
hours of instruction per academic term
if at the graduate level). See 8 CFR
214.2(f)(5)(v), (f)(6), and (f)(9)(i) and (ii).
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How does a student who has received
a TPS-related EAD then apply for
authorization to take a reduced course
load under this notice?
There is no further application
process with USCIS if a student has
been approved for a TPS-related EAD.
The F–1 nonimmigrant student must
demonstrate and provide
documentation to the DSO of the direct
economic hardship resulting from the
current armed conflict in Ukraine. The
DSO will then verify and update the
student’s record in SEVIS to enable the
F–1 nonimmigrant student with TPS to
reduce the course load without any
further action or application. No other
EAD needs to be issued for the F–1
nonimmigrant student to have
employment authorization.
36 See
8 CFR 214.2(f)(6).
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Can a noncitizen who has been granted
TPS apply for reinstatement of F–1
nonimmigrant student status after the
noncitizen’s F–1 nonimmigrant student
status has lapsed?
Yes. Regulations permit certain
students who fall out of F–1
nonimmigrant student status to apply
for reinstatement. See 8 CFR
214.2(f)(16). This provision may apply
to students who worked on a TPSrelated EAD or dropped their course
load before publication of this notice,
and therefore fell out of student status.
These students must satisfy the criteria
set forth in the F–1 nonimmigrant
student status reinstatement regulations.
To apply for employment
authorization, certain F–1
nonimmigrant students must complete
and submit a currently approved Form
I–765 according to the instructions on
the form. OMB has previously approved
the collection of information contained
on the current Form I–765, consistent
with the PRA (OMB Control No. 1615–
0040). Although there will be a slight
increase in the number of Form I–765
filings because of this notice, the
number of filings currently contained in
the OMB annual inventory for Form I–
765 is sufficient to cover the additional
filings. Accordingly, there is no further
action required under the PRA.
How long will this notice remain in
effect?
This notice grants temporary relief
until April 19, 2025,37 to eligible F–1
nonimmigrant students. DHS will
continue to monitor the situation in
Ukraine. Should the special provisions
authorized by this notice need
modification or extension, DHS will
announce such changes in the Federal
Register.
Alejandro Mayorkas,
Secretary, U.S. Department of Homeland
Security.
Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA)
An F–1 nonimmigrant student seeking
off-campus employment authorization
due to severe economic hardship
resulting from the current armed
conflict in Ukraine must demonstrate to
the DSO that this employment is
necessary to avoid severe economic
hardship. A DSO who agrees that a
nonimmigrant student should receive
such employment authorization must
recommend an application approval to
USCIS by entering information in the
remarks field of the student’s SEVIS
record. The authority to collect this
information is in the SEVIS collection of
information currently approved by the
Office of Management and Budget
(OMB) under OMB Control Number
1653–0038.
This notice also allows an eligible F–
1 nonimmigrant student to request
employment authorization, work an
increased number of hours while the
academic institution is in session, and
reduce their course load while
continuing to maintain F–1
nonimmigrant student status.
37 Because the suspension of requirements under
this notice applies throughout an academic term
during which the suspension is in effect, DHS
considers an F–1 nonimmigrant student who
engages in a reduced course load or employment (or
both) after this notice is effective to be engaging in
a ‘‘full course of study,’’ see 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6), and
eligible for employment authorization, through the
end of any academic term for which such student
is matriculated as of April 19, 2025, provided the
student satisfies the minimum course load
requirements in this notice.
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[FR Doc. 2023–17872 Filed 8–18–23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 9111–28–P
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND
SECURITY
U.S. Immigration and Customs
Enforcement
[Docket No. ICEB–2023–0004]
RIN 1653–ZA39
Employment Authorization for
Sudanese F–1 Nonimmigrant Students
Experiencing Severe Economic
Hardship as a Direct Result of the
Current Crisis in Sudan
U.S. Immigration and Customs
Enforcement; Department of Homeland
Security.
ACTION: Notice.
AGENCY:
This notice announces that
the Secretary of Homeland Security
(Secretary) is suspending certain
regulatory requirements for F–1
nonimmigrant students whose country
of citizenship is Sudan, regardless of
country of birth (or individuals having
no nationality who last habitually
resided in Sudan), and who are
experiencing severe economic hardship
as a direct result of the current crisis in
Sudan. The Secretary is taking action to
provide relief to these Sudanese
students who are in lawful F–1
nonimmigrant student status, so the
students may request employment
authorization, work an increased
number of hours while school is in
session, and reduce their course load
while continuing to maintain their F–1
nonimmigrant student status. The U.S.
Department of Homeland Security
(DHS) will deem an F–1 nonimmigrant
student granted employment
authorization by means of this notice to
SUMMARY:
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Federal Register / Vol. 88, No. 160 / Monday, August 21, 2023 / Notices
be engaged in a ‘‘full course of study’’
for the duration of the employment
authorization, if the nonimmigrant
student satisfies the minimum course
load requirement described in this
notice.
DATES: This action is effective October
20, 2023, through April 19, 2025.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
Sharon Snyder, Unit Chief, Policy and
Response Unit, Student and Exchange
Visitor Program, MS 5600, U.S.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement,
500 12th Street SW, Washington, DC
20536–5600; email: sevp@ice.dhs.gov,
telephone: (703) 603–3400. This is not
a toll-free number. Program information
can be found at https://www.ice.gov/
sevis/.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
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What action is DHS taking under this
notice?
The Secretary is exercising authority
under 8 CFR 214.2(f)(9) to temporarily
suspend the applicability of certain
requirements governing on-campus and
off-campus employment for F–1
nonimmigrant students whose country
of citizenship is Sudan regardless of
country of birth (or individuals having
no nationality who last habitually
resided in Sudan), who are present in
the United States in lawful F–1
nonimmigrant student status on the date
of publication of this notice, and who
are experiencing severe economic
hardship as a direct result of the current
crisis in Sudan. The original notice,
which suspended certain regulatory
requirements for F–1 nonimmigrant
students experiencing severe economic
hardship as a direct result of the crisis
at that time is effective from April 19,
2022, through October 19, 2023. See 87
FR 23195 (Apr. 19, 2022). Effective with
this publication, suspension of the
employment limitations is available
through April 19, 2025, for those who
are in lawful F–1 nonimmigrant status
on the date of publication of this notice.
DHS will deem an F–1 nonimmigrant
student granted employment
authorization through this notice to be
engaged in a ‘‘full course of study’’ for
the duration of the employment
authorization, if the student satisfies the
minimum course load set forth in this
notice.1 See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6)(i)(F).
1 Because the suspension of requirements under
this notice applies throughout an academic term
during which the suspension is in effect, DHS
considers an F-1 nonimmigrant student who
engages in a reduced course load or employment (or
both) after this notice is effective to be engaging in
a ‘‘full course of study,’’ see 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6), and
eligible for employment authorization, through the
end of any academic term for which such student
is matriculated as of April 19, 2025, provided the
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Who is covered by this notice?
This notice applies exclusively to F–
1 nonimmigrant students who meet all
of the following conditions:
(1) Are a citizen of Sudan regardless
of country of birth (or an individual
having no nationality who last
habitually resided in Sudan);
(2) Were lawfully present in the
United States on the date of publication
of this notice in F–1 nonimmigrant
status under section 101(a)(15)(F)(i) of
the Immigration and Nationality Act
(INA), 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(F)(i);
(3) Are enrolled in an academic
institution that is Student and Exchange
Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified for
enrollment for F–1 nonimmigrant
students;
(4) Are currently maintaining F–1
nonimmigrant status; and
(5) Are experiencing severe economic
hardship as a direct result of the current
crisis in Sudan.
This notice applies to F–1
nonimmigrant students in an approved
private school in kindergarten through
grade 12, public school grades 9 through
12, and undergraduate and graduate
education. An F–1 nonimmigrant
student covered by this notice who
transfers to another SEVP-certified
academic institution remains eligible for
the relief provided by means of this
notice.
Why is DHS taking this action?
DHS is taking action to provide relief
to Sudanese F–1 nonimmigrant students
experiencing severe economic hardship
due to the current crisis in Sudan. Based
on its review of country conditions in
Sudan and input received from the U.S.
Department of State (DOS), DHS is
taking action to allow eligible F–1
nonimmigrant students from Sudan to
request employment authorization,
work an increased number of hours
while school is in session, and reduce
their course load while continuing to
maintain F–1 nonimmigrant student
status.
In August 2019, a transitional
government,2 known as the Sovereign
Council, comprised of military and
civilian members, was established in
Sudan.3 General Abdel Fatah al-Burhan,
student satisfies the minimum course load
requirements in this notice.
2 The Sovereign Council removed Sudan’s former
President Omar al-Bashir, after 30 years in power.
After Bashir, A New Dawn in Sudan? U.S. Institute
of Peace, April 17, 2019, available at https://
www.usip.org/publications/2019/04/after-bashirnew-dawn-sudan-part-1 (last visited on Apr. 17,
2023).
3 2020 Country Reports on Human Rights
Practices: Sudan, DOS, March 30, 2020, available at
https://www.state.gov/reports/2020-country-reports-
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a top military figure in the Sudanese
Armed Forces (SAF) led the council.4
General Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo,
also known as Hemedti, head of the
Rapid Support Forces (RSF),5 served as
the deputy to General al-Burhan.6 On
August 20, 2021, Dr. Abdalla Hamdok
was sworn in as the prime minister of
Sudan.7 However, on October 25, 2021,
Sudan faced a military takeover of the
transitional government led by General
al-Burhan with the support of General
Hemedti.8 Prime Minister Hamdok was
removed from power and taken to an
undisclosed location. In December 2021,
General al-Burhan ‘‘issued an edict
giving authorities sweeping powers to
clamp down on dissent, including
granting security officers immunity from
prosecution in carrying out these
orders.’’ 9 Prime Minister Hamdock was
eventually freed and officially resigned
as the Sudanese prime minister on
January 2, 2022.10
In February 2023, the United Nations
(UN) Panel of Experts on Sudan
reported that Sudan continued to face a
political crisis at the national level, with
regular demonstrations against the rule
of the military.11 It further reported that
a path to a transition towards a fully
on-human-rights-practices/sudan/ (last visited on
Apr. 17, 2023).
4 Id.
5 Rapid Support Forces (RSF) is a paramilitary
force established in 2013 by former President alBashir. It was ‘‘fashioned out of Janjaweed militias
and was assembled in response to anti-government
rebel movements in Darfur.’’ ‘‘It has also been
accused of a myriad of human rights abuses in
Darfur and elsewhere.’’ The Rapid Support Forces
and the Escalation of Violence in Sudan, ACLED,
July 2019, acleddata.com/2019/07/02/the-rapidsupport-forces-and-the-escalation-of-violence-insudan/ (last visited May 10, 2023).
6 Sudan strongman is seen as an insider with
powerful allies, AP News, October 27, 2021,
available at https://apnews.com/article/sudan-whois-abdel-fattah-burhan-3f2d4d660fabf1b
526f09f04808af7c8 (last visited on Apr. 17, 2023).
7 2019 Country Reports on Human Rights
Practices: Sudan, U.S. Department of State, March
30, 2020, available at https://www.state.gov/reports/
2019-country-reports-on-human-rights-practices/
sudan/ (last visited Apr. 17, 2023).
8 Appetite for Destruction: The Military
Counterrevolution in Sudan, ACLED, October 29,
2021, available at https://acleddata.com/2021/10/
29/appetite-for-destruction-the-military-counterrevolution-in-sudan/ (last visited July 25, 2023).
9 Watch List 2022; Sudan: Toward a Reset for the
Transition, International Crisis Group, Jan. 27,
2022, available at https://www.ecoi.net/en/
document/2069005.html (last visited Mar. 29,
2023).
10 Sudan coup: Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok
resigns after mass protests, BBC News, 3 Jan. 2022,
available at https://www.bbc.com/news/worldafrica-59855246 (last visited May 10, 2022).
11 Letter dated 7 February 2023 from the Panel of
Experts on the Sudan addressed to the President of
the Security Council; Final report of the Panel of
Experts on the Sudan, UN Security Council,
February 7, 2023, available at https://www.ecoi.net/
en/file/local/2087153/N2303752.pdf (last visited
Mar. 29, 2023).
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civilian government remained
unclear.12 Moreover, the UN Security
Council reported, in September 2022,
that the lack of a political agreement
and a fully functioning government
contributed to insecurity in various
parts of Sudan, as well as to the
deterioration of the economic and
humanitarian situation.13
In April 2023, tensions between
General Burhan and General Hemedti
led to armed conflict between the
Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the
RSF.14 The conflict was caused by a
disagreement over how the RSF would
be integrated into the SAF.15 On April
16, 2023, the UN Office for the
Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs
(UNOCHA) further reported on security
conditions in the country stating that
clashes between the SAF and the RSF
erupted in Khartoum just before 9:00
a.m. on April 15, 2023. Additionally,
heavy gunfire and explosions were
heard from several locations in
Khartoum. The RSF released a statement
claiming to have taken control of
Khartoum International Airport, the
Presidential Palace, state television, and
other key locations in the city. News of
clashes at the military base in Merowe
in Northern State and heavy exchanges
of fire at the Soba military base in the
south of Khartoum were also reported
around the same time. Shortly after,
heavy fighting was heard at the airport
and the Sudanese Air Force attacked
RSF positions from the air. Several
civilian planes were reportedly
damaged, and unconfirmed reports have
indicated that the damaged aircraft
includes the only UN Humanitarian Air
Service (UNHAS) fixed-wing plane still
in service following a recent funding
shortage.16 The United States Agency
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12 Id.
13 Situation in Sudan and the activities of the
UNITAMS, UN Security Council, September 2,
2022, available at https://www.ecoi.net/en/file/
local/2078615/N2258000-1.pdf (last visited Mar. 29,
2023).
14 ‘‘In January 2015, the RSF, which had been
operating under the command of the National
Intelligence Security Services, became part of the
regular government forces through a constitutional
amendment. In April 2015, the RSF were placed
under the command of the Presidency. In January
2017, the Parliament passed the Rapid Support
Forces Act, integrating those forces into the Sudan
Armed Forces.’’ Report of the Secretary-General on
children and armed conflict in Sudan, UN Security
Council, March 6, 2017, available at https://
www.un.org/ga/search/view_doc.asp?symbol=S/
2017/191&referer=/english/&Lang=E (last visited
Apr. 17, 2023).
15 Dozens of civilians are dead as rival military
factions batter for control of Sudan, National Public
Radio, April 17, 2023, available at https://
www.npr.org/2023/04/16/1170289462/sudansarmy-and-rsf-are-doing-battle-leaving-56-civiliansdead (last visited Apr. 17, 2023).
16 Sudan Situation Report, UNOCHA, April 17,
2023, available at https://reliefweb.int/report/
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for International Development (USAID)
reports that at least 3,900 people have
been killed since the conflict began,
although the true toll is likely much
higher.17
Economic Situation
Sudan’s political stalemate has
negatively impacted its economy.18 In
2022, Sudan’s government devalued its
currency, causing the inflation rate to
surpass 300 percent.19 In 2022, Sudan’s
economy remained highly dependent on
agriculture, which contributes to nearly
a third of the country’s gross domestic
product (GDP), and provides livelihoods
to approximately two-thirds of Sudan’s
population.20 However, the rising prices
of fuel, agricultural tools, and fertilizer
has impeded local production costs
further eroding the already limited
purchasing power of the majority of the
population.21
Moreover, continued insecurity, intercommunal violence and rising floods
led to price hikes of basic services in
Sudan.22 Continued increases in the
prices of food and transportation, and
the local food basket are expected to
continue impacting the purchasing
power of poor households and likely
drive an increase in the inflation rate.
The Food and Agriculture Organization
(FAO) estimate that 5.6 million people
are affected by the dry spells in addition
to the 9.8 million people that are food
insecure due to the current economic
crisis, as well as fuel and price hikes.23
In April 2023, the Famine Early
Warning System Network, reported that
‘‘Sudan’s economic conditions remain
poor, as low foreign currency reserves
sudan/sudan-clashes-between-sudanese-armedforces-and-rapid-support-forces-flash-update-16april-2023-enar (last visited July 25, 2023).
17 Sudan—Complex Emergency Fact Sheet #15,
Fiscal Year (FY) 2023, USAID, available at https://
reliefweb.int/report/sudan/sudan-complexemergency-fact-sheet-15-fiscal-year-fy-2023 (last
visited August 4, 2023).
18 Sudan: Overview Complex Crisis, Assessments
Capacities Project (ACAPS) April 13, 2022,
available at https://www.acaps.org/country/sudan/
crisis/violence-in-darfur-and-kordofan-regions (last
visited Apr. 11, 2023).
19 Id.
20 Humanitarian Needs Overview Sudan 2023,
UNOCHA, November 2, 2022, available at file:///C:/
Users/RMoehri/AppData/Local/Temp/1/
MicrosoftEdgeDownloads/1437637c-ce66–4ebe9716-e86db118cf30/SDN_2023–HNO.pdf (last
visited July 26, 2023).
21 Id.
22 Sudan: Overview Complex Crisis, ACAPS April
13, 2022, available at https://www.acaps.org/
fileadmin/Data_Product/Main_media/20220324_
acaps_global_risk_report_march_2022.pdf (last
visited July 25, 2023).
23 Sudan: Situation Report, UNOCHA, available at
file://one.dhs/wpaas-ice/ten3-homedir/RMOEHRI/
Downloads/Situation%20Report%20-%20Sudan
%20-%2027%20Mar%202022.pdf (last visited July
25, 2023).
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56859
and currency depreciation resulted in
high inflation rates.’’ 24
Numbers at a Glance
• Number of People in Need:
24,700,000 (since December 14, 2022, as
of May 17, 2023) 25
• Children in Need: 8,500,000 (since
December 14, 2021, as of December 5,
2022) 26
• People Internally Displaced:
2,613,036(since July 11, 2023, as of July
18, 2023) 27
• People Affected by Floods:
348,724 28
• People in Food Crisis/Emergency:
11,700,000 (since April 30, 2022, as of
June 21, 2022) 29
Displacement
As of March 2023, there were more
than 3.8 million Internally Displaced
Person(s) (IDPs) in Sudan, and this
figure has increased since conflict began
in April 2023.30 In November 2022,
UNOCHA reported that at least 2
million IDPs were under the age of 18
and had been displaced for most of their
lives, and that 52 percent of IDPs were
female.31
Moreover, the living conditions for
IDPs in Sudan remains dire, as many
IDPs have been displaced multiple
times and have been traumatized,
physically abused, injured, or have lost
family members, personal belongings,
shelters, villages and access to land,
water points and firewood collection.32
24 Sudan Key Message Update: Exceedingly high
cost of living and conflict undermine benefits of
harvest, March 2023, Famine Early Warning System
Network, April 6, 2023, available at https://
reliefweb.int/report/sudan/sudan-key-messageupdate-exceedingly-high-cost-living-and-conflictundermine-benefits-harvest-march-2023 (last
visited May 17, 2023).
25 Sudan Key Figures, UNOCHA, available at
https://m.reliefweb.int/country/220/sdn?figuresdisplay=all (last visited Apr. 17, 2023).
26 Id.
27 Id.
28 Sudan: Floods: People & areas affected,
UNOCHA, October 2, 2022, available at https://
reliefweb.int/map/sudan/sudan-floods-peopleareas-affected-02-october-2022 (last visited Apr. 17,
2023).
29 Sudan Key Figures, UNOCHA, available at
https://m.reliefweb.int/country/220/sdn?figuresdisplay=all (last visited Apr. 17, 2023).
30 International Organization for Migration (IOM),
DTM Sudan—Situation Report (16), Aug 8, 2023,
https://dtm.iom.int/reports/dtm-sudan-situationreport-16 (last visited Aug. 9, 2023)
31 Humanitarian Needs Overview Sudan 2023,
UNOCHA, November 2, 2022, available to
download at https://reliefweb.int/report/sudan/
sudan-humanitarian-needs-overview-2023november-2022?_gl=1*1a32v0y*_
ga*MjA2NjI5MjkzOS4xNjkwMzcxNzYy*_ga_
E60ZNX2F68*MTY5MDM3MTc2MS4xLjEuMTY5
MDM3MTgwNS4xNi4wLjA. (last visited July 25,
2023).
32 Id.
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UNOCHA reported in November 2022
that the majority of IDPs continue to
reside in temporary sites and are unable
to return to their homes or previous
displacement sites due to security
concerns.33
Forced displacement due to conflict is
concentrated in Darfur’s states, which
host 85 percent of Sudan’s total IDP
population.34 In July 2022, rising intercommunal violence in the Blue Nile
region resulted in the forced
displacement of some additional 12,800
people.35 The UN Integrated Transition
Assistance Mission in Sudan
(UNITAMS) further reported that, in
March 2023, local violence in Darfur,
Blue Nile, and South and West
Kordofan that mainly concerned access
to and control of resources contributed
to the displacement of civilians. Over
16,000 people were displaced due to
violence between December 2022 and
February 2023.36
In 2022, gender-based violence
remained a grave concern across
Sudan.41 In February 2023, UNITAMS
reported that the UN Joint Human
Rights Office continued to receive
reports of sexual violence against
women from camps for IDPs who engage
in livelihood activities outside the
camps.42 There have also been several
reports of security forces engaging in
sexual violence against women across
the country, reportedly to discourage
their participation in protests and
demonstrations.43
As of August 8, 2023, approximately
351 F–1 nonimmigrant students from
Sudan are enrolled at SEVP-certified
academic institutions in the United
States. Given the extent of the current
crisis in Sudan, affected students whose
primary means of financial support
comes from Sudan may need to be
exempt from the normal student
employment requirements to continue
their studies in the United States. The
current crisis has made it unfeasible for
many students to safely return to Sudan
for the foreseeable future. Without
employment authorization, these
students may lack the means to meet
basic living expenses.
Food Security
The number of food insecure people
in Sudan continued to increase in
2022.37 In September 2022, the UN
reported that almost one quarter of the
population was estimated to be facing
acute hunger.38 In addition, according to
What is the minimum course load
ACAPS, in 2022 at least three million
requirement to maintain valid F–1
children under the age of five suffered
nonimmigrant status under this notice?
39
from malnutrition.
Undergraduate F–1 nonimmigrant
Vulnerable Populations
students who receive on-campus or offMembers of vulnerable groups,
campus employment authorization
including women and children,
under this notice must remain registered
continue to face a range of risks,
for a minimum of six semester or
including gender-based violence (GBV), quarter hours of instruction per
as well as other human rights abuses.40
academic term. Undergraduate F–1
nonimmigrant students enrolled in a
33 Sudan Flash Update: Conflict in Blue Nile
term of different duration must register
State, Flash Update No. 07 (3 November 2023),
for at least one half of the credit hours
UNOCHA, available at https://reports.unocha.org/
normally required under a ‘‘full course
en/country/sudan/card/1LiGbNBeVA/ (last visited
July 25, 2023).
of study.’’ See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6)(i)(B)
34 Clashes displace thousands in Darfur, UN
and (F). A graduate-level F–1
News, available at https://news.un.org/en/story/
nonimmigrant student who receives on2021/12/1107292 (last visited July 25, 2023).
campus or off-campus employment
35 Sudan: Displacement due to conflict in Blue
authorization under this notice must
Nile state, UNOCHA, available at file:///C:/Users/
RMoehri/AppData/Local/Temp/5/
remain registered for a minimum of
MicrosoftEdgeDownloads/6a6ada21–4fb3–4037–
three semester or quarter hours of
97c4-e30d13f460c6/20220728_acaps_briefing_note_
instruction per academic term. See 8
sudan_displacement_in_blue_nile_state_
CFR 214.2(f)(5)(v). Nothing in this
0%20(1).pdf (last visited July 25, 2023).
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with NOTICES1
36 Id.
37 Humanitarian Needs Overview Sudan 2023,
UNOCHA, November 2, 2022, available at https://
reliefweb.int/report/sudan/sudan-humanitarianneeds-overview-2023-november-2022 (last visited
Apr. 7, 2023).
38 Situation in Sudan and the activities of the
UNITAMS, UN Security Council, September 2,
2022, available at https://www.ecoi.net/en/file/
local/2078615/N2258000-1.pdf (last visited Mar. 29,
2023).
39 Sudan Overview, ACAPS, January 1, 2023,
available at https://www.acaps.org/fileadmin/Data_
Product/Main_media/20230419_acaps_briefing_
note_sudan_conflict.pdf (last visited July 25, 2023).
40 Humanitarian Needs Overview Sudan 2023,
UNOCHA, November 2, 2022, available at file:///C:/
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Users/RMoehri/AppData/Local/Temp/5/
MicrosoftEdgeDownloads/d53a1d63–7c1f-4270a55b-486349498546/SDN_2023–HNO.pdf (last
visited July 25, 2023).
41 Id.
42 Sudan: Humanitarian Key Messages (February
2023), UNOCHA, February 26, 2023, https://
reliefweb.int/report/sudan/sudan-humanitariankey-messages-february-2023 (last visited on July 25,
2023).
43 2022 Country Reports on Human Rights
Practices: Sudan, U.S. Department of State, March
23, 2023, available at https://www.state.gov/wpcontent/uploads/2023/02/415610_SUDAN-2022HUMAN-RIGHTS-REPORT.pdf (last visited Apr. 7,
2023).
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notice affects the applicability of other
minimum course load requirements set
by the academic institution.
In addition, an F–1 nonimmigrant
student (either undergraduate or
graduate) granted on-campus or offcampus employment authorization
under this notice may count up to the
equivalent of one class or three credits
per session, term, semester, trimester, or
quarter of online or distance education
toward satisfying this minimum course
load requirement, unless their course of
study is in an English language study
program. See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6)(i)(G). An
F–1 nonimmigrant student attending an
approved private school in kindergarten
through grade 12 or public school in
grades 9 through 12 must maintain
‘‘class attendance for not less than the
minimum number of hours a week
prescribed by the school for normal
progress toward graduation,’’ as
required under 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6)(i)(E).
Nothing in this notice affects the
applicability of federal and state labor
laws limiting the employment of
minors.
May an eligible F–1 nonimmigrant
student who already has on-campus or
off-campus employment authorization
benefit from the suspension of
regulatory requirements under this
notice?
Yes. An F–1 nonimmigrant student
who is a Sudanese citizen, regardless of
country of birth (or an individual having
no nationality who last habitually
resided in Sudan), who already has oncampus or off-campus employment
authorization and is otherwise eligible
may benefit under this notice, which
suspends certain regulatory
requirements relating to the minimum
course load requirement under 8 CFR
214.2(f)(6)(i) and certain employment
eligibility requirements under 8 CFR
214.2(f)(9). Such an eligible F–1
nonimmigrant student may benefit
without having to apply for a new Form
I–766, Employment Authorization
Document (EAD). To benefit from this
notice, the F–1 nonimmigrant student
must request that their designated
school official (DSO) enter the following
statement in the remarks field of the
student’s Student and Exchange Visitor
Information System (SEVIS) record,
which the student’s Form I–20,
Certificate of Eligibility for
Nonimmigrant (F–1) Student Status,
will reflect:
Approved for more than 20 hours per week
of [DSO must insert ‘‘on-campus’’ or ‘‘offcampus,’’ depending upon the type of
employment authorization the student
already has] employment authorization and
reduced course load under the Special
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Student Relief authorization from [DSO must
insert the beginning date of the notice or the
beginning date of the student’s employment,
whichever date is later] until [DSO must
insert either the student’s program end date,
the current EAD expiration date (if the
student is currently authorized for offcampus employment), or the end date of this
notice, whichever date comes first].44
Must the F–1 nonimmigrant student
apply for reinstatement after expiration
of this special employment
authorization if the student reduces his
or her ‘‘full course of study’’?
No. DHS will deem an F–1
nonimmigrant student who receives and
comports with the employment
authorization permitted under this
notice to be engaged in a ‘‘full course of
study’’ 45 for the duration of the
student’s employment authorization,
provided that a qualifying
undergraduate level F–1 nonimmigrant
student remains registered for a
minimum of six semester or quarter
hours of instruction per academic term,
and a qualifying graduate level F–1
nonimmigrant student remains
registered for a minimum of three
semester or quarter hours of instruction
per academic term. See 8 CFR
214.2(f)(5)(v) and (f)(6)(i)(F).
Undergraduate F–1 nonimmigrant
students enrolled in a term of different
duration must register for at least one
half of the credit hours normally
required under a ‘‘full course of study.’’
See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6)(i)(B) and (F). DHS
will not require such students to apply
for reinstatement under 8 CFR
214.2(f)(16) if they are otherwise
maintaining F–1 nonimmigrant status.
Will an F–2 dependent (spouse or
minor child) of an F–1 nonimmigrant
student covered by this notice be
eligible for employment authorization?
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with NOTICES1
No. An F–2 spouse or minor child of
an F–1 nonimmigrant student is not
authorized to work in the United States
and, therefore, may not accept
employment under the F–2
nonimmigrant status, consistent with
8CFR 214.2(f)(15)(i).
44 Because the suspension of requirements under
this notice applies throughout an academic term
during which the suspension is in effect, DHS
considers an F–1 nonimmigrant student who
engages in a reduced course load or employment (or
both) after this notice is effective to be engaging in
a ‘‘full course of study,’’ see 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6), and
eligible for employment authorization, through the
end of any academic term for which such student
is matriculated as of April 19, 2025, provided the
student satisfies the minimum course load
requirements in this notice.
45 See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6).
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Will the suspension of the applicability
of the standard student employment
requirements apply to an individual
who receives an initial F–1 visa and
makes an initial entry into the United
States after the effective date of this
notice in the Federal Register?
No. The suspension of the
applicability of the standard regulatory
requirements only applies to certain F–
1 nonimmigrant students who meet the
following conditions:
(1) Are a citizen of Sudan regardless
of country of birth (or an individual
having no nationality who last
habitually resided in Sudan);
(2) Were lawfully present in the
United States on the date of publication
of this notice in F–1 nonimmigrant
status, under section 101(a)(15)(F)(i) of
the INA, 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(F)(i);
(3) Are enrolled in an academic
institution that is SEVP-certified for
enrollment of F–1 nonimmigrant
students;
(4) Are maintaining F–1
nonimmigrant status; and
(5) Are experiencing severe economic
hardship as a direct result of the current
crisis in Sudan.
An F–1 nonimmigrant student who
does not meet all these requirements is
ineligible for the suspension of the
applicability of the standard regulatory
requirements (even if experiencing
severe economic hardship as a direct
result of the current crisis in Sudan).
Does this notice apply to a continuing
F–1 nonimmigrant student who departs
the United States after the effective date
of this notice in the Federal Register
and who needs to obtain a new F–1 visa
before returning to the United States to
continue an educational program?
Yes. This notice applies to such an F–
1 nonimmigrant student, but only if the
DSO has properly notated the student’s
SEVIS record, which will then appear
on the student’s Form I–20. The normal
rules for visa issuance remain
applicable to a nonimmigrant who
needs to apply for a new F–1 visa to
continue an educational program in the
United States.
Does this notice apply to elementary
school, middle school, and high school
students in F–1 status?
Yes. However, this notice does not by
itself reduce the required course load for
F–1 nonimmigrant students from Sudan
enrolled in kindergarten through grade
12 at a private school, or grades 9
through 12 at a public high school. Such
students must maintain the minimum
number of hours of class attendance per
week prescribed by the academic
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56861
institution for normal progress toward
graduation, as required under
8CFR214.2(f)(6)(i)(E). The suspension of
certain regulatory requirements related
to employment through this notice is
applicable to all eligible F–1
nonimmigrant students regardless of
educational level. Eligible F–1
nonimmigrant students from Sudan
enrolled in an elementary school,
middle school, or high school may
benefit from the suspension of the
requirement in 8 CFR 214.2(f)(9)(i) that
limits on-campus employment to 20
hours per week while school is in
session.
On-Campus Employment Authorization
Will an F–1 nonimmigrant student who
receives on-campus employment
authorization under this notice be
authorized to work more than 20 hours
per week while school is in session?
Yes. For an F–1 nonimmigrant
student covered in this notice, the
Secretary is suspending the
applicability of the requirement in 8
CFR 214.2(f)(9)(i) that limits an F–1
nonimmigrant student’s on-campus
employment to 20 hours per week while
school is in session. An eligible F–1
nonimmigrant student has authorization
to work more than 20 hours per week
while school is in session if the DSO has
entered the following statement in the
remarks field of the student’s SEVIS
record, which will be reflected on the
student’s Form I–20:
Approved for more than 20 hours per week
of on-campus employment and reduced
course load, under the Special Student Relief
authorization from [DSO must insert the
beginning date of this notice or the beginning
date of the student’s employment, whichever
date is later] until [DSO must insert the
student’s program end date or the end date
of this notice, whichever date comes first].46
To obtain on-campus employment
authorization, the F–1 nonimmigrant
student must demonstrate to the DSO
that the employment is necessary to
avoid severe economic hardship directly
resulting from the current crisis in
Sudan. An F–1 nonimmigrant student
authorized by the DSO to engage in oncampus employment by means of this
notice does not need to file any
applications with U.S. Citizenship and
46 Because the suspension of requirements under
this notice applies throughout an academic term
during which the suspension is in effect, DHS
considers an F–1 nonimmigrant student who
engages in a reduced course load or employment (or
both) after this notice is effective to be engaging in
a ‘‘full course of study,’’ see 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6), and
eligible for employment authorization, through the
end of any academic term for which such student
is matriculated as of April 19, 2025, provided the
student satisfies the minimum course load
requirements in this notice.
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Immigration Services (USCIS). The
standard rules permitting full-time oncampus employment when school is not
in session or during school vacations
apply, as described in 8 CFR
214.2(f)(9)(i).
(d) The requirement that the student
demonstrate that employment under 8
CFR 214.2(f)(9)(i) is unavailable or
otherwise insufficient to meet the needs
that have arisen as a result of the
unforeseen circumstances.
Will an F–1 nonimmigrant student who
receives on-campus employment
authorization under this notice have
authorization to reduce the normal
course load and still maintain his or her
F–1 nonimmigrant student status?
Will an F–1 nonimmigrant student who
receives off-campus employment
authorization under this notice have
authorization to reduce the normal
course load and still maintain F–1
nonimmigrant status?
Yes. DHS will deem an F–1
nonimmigrant student who receives offcampus employment authorization by
means of this notice to be engaged in a
‘‘full course of study’’ 49 for the purpose
of maintaining F–1 nonimmigrant
student status for the duration of the
student’s employment authorization if
the student satisfies the minimum
course load requirement described in
this notice, consistent with 8 CFR
214.2(f)(6)(i)(F). However, the
authorization for a reduced course load
is solely for DHS purposes of
determining valid F–1 nonimmigrant
student status. Nothing in this notice
mandates that school officials allow an
F–1 nonimmigrant student to take a
reduced course load if such reduced
course load would not meet the school’s
minimum course load requirement.50
Yes. DHS will deem an F–1
nonimmigrant student who receives oncampus employment authorization
under this notice to be engaged in a
‘‘full course of study’’ 47 for the purpose
of maintaining their F–1 nonimmigrant
student status for the duration of the oncampus employment, if the student
satisfies the minimum course load
requirement described in this notice,
consistent with 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6)(i)(F).
However, the authorization to reduce
the normal course load is solely for DHS
purposes of determining valid F–1
nonimmigrant student status. Nothing
in this notice mandates that school
officials allow an F–1 nonimmigrant
student to take a reduced course load if
the reduction would not meet the
academic institution’s minimum course
load requirement for continued
enrollment.48
Off-Campus Employment Authorization
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with NOTICES1
What regulatory requirements does this
notice temporarily suspend relating to
off-campus employment?
For an F–1 nonimmigrant student
covered by this notice, as provided
under 8 CFR 214.2(f)(9)(ii)(A), the
Secretary is suspending the following
regulatory requirements relating to offcampus employment:
(a) The requirement that a student
must have been in F–1 nonimmigrant
student status for one full academic year
to be eligible for off-campus
employment;
(b) The requirement that an F–1
nonimmigrant student must
demonstrate that acceptance of
employment will not interfere with the
student’s carrying a full course of study;
(c) The requirement that limits an F–
1 nonimmigrant student’s employment
authorization to no more than 20 hours
per week of off-campus employment
while the school is in session; and
How may an eligible F–1 nonimmigrant
student obtain employment
authorization for off-campus
employment with a reduced course load
under this notice?
An F–1 nonimmigrant student must
file a Form I–765, Application for
Employment Authorization, with USCIS
to apply for off-campus employment
authorization based on severe economic
hardship directly resulting from the
current crisis in Sudan.51 Filing
instructions are located at https://
www.uscis.gov/i-765.
Fee considerations. Submission of a
Form I–765 currently requires payment
of a $410 fee. An applicant who is
unable to pay the fee may submit a
completed Form I–912, Request for Fee
Waiver, along with the Form I–765,
Application for Employment
Authorization. See https://
www.uscis.gov/forms/filing-fees/
additional-information-on-filing-a-feewaiver.The submission must include an
explanation about why USCIS should
49 See
See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6).
48 Minimum course load requirement for
enrollment in a school must be established in a
publicly available document (e.g., catalog, website,
or operating procedure), and it must be a standard
applicable to all students (U.S. citizens and foreign
students) enrolled at the school.
47
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8 CFR 214.2(f)(6).
course load requirement for
enrollment in a school must be established in a
publicly available document (e.g., catalog, website,
or operating procedure), and it must be a standard
applicable to all students (U.S. citizens and foreign
students) enrolled at the school.
51 See 8 CFR 274a.12(c)(3)(iii).
50 Minimum
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grant the fee waiver and the reason(s)
for the inability to pay, and any
evidence to support the reason(s). See 8
CFR 103.7(c) (Oct. 1, 2020).
Supporting documentation. An F–1
nonimmigrant student seeking offcampus employment authorization due
to severe economic hardship must
demonstrate the following to their DSO:
(1) This employment is necessary to
avoid severe economic hardship; and
(2) The hardship is a direct result of
the current crisis in Sudan.
If the DSO agrees that the F–1
nonimmigrant student is entitled to
receive such employment authorization,
the DSO must recommend application
approval to USCIS by entering the
following statement in the remarks field
of the student’s SEVIS record, which
will then appear on that student’s Form
I–20:
Recommended for off-campus
employment authorization in excess of
20 hours per week and reduced course
load under the Special Student Relief
authorization from the date of the
USCIS authorization noted on Form I–
766 until [DSO must insert the program
end date or the end date of this notice,
whichever date comes first].52
The F–1 nonimmigrant student must
then file the properly endorsed Form I–
20 and Form I–765 according to the
instructions for the Form I–765. The F–
1 nonimmigrant student may begin
working off campus only upon receipt
of the EAD from USCIS.
DSO recommendation. In making a
recommendation that an F–1
nonimmigrant student be approved for
Special Student Relief, the DSO certifies
that:
(a) The F–1 nonimmigrant student is
in good academic standing and is
carrying a ‘‘full course of study’’ 53 at the
time of the request for employment
authorization;
(b) The F–1 nonimmigrant student is
a citizen of Sudan, regardless of country
of birth (or an individual having no
nationality who last habitually resided
in Sudan), and is experiencing severe
economic hardship as a direct result of
the current crisis in Sudan, as
documented on the Form I–20;
(c) The F–1 nonimmigrant student has
confirmed that the student will comply
52 Because the suspension of requirements under
this notice applies throughout an academic term
during which the suspension is in effect, DHS
considers an F–1 nonimmigrant student who
engages in a reduced course load or employment (or
both) after this notice is effective to be engaging in
a ‘‘full course of study,’’ see 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6), and
eligible for employment authorization, through the
end of any academic term for which such student
is matriculated as of April 19, 2025, provided the
student satisfies the minimum course load
requirements in this notice.
53 See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6).
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with the reduced course load
requirements of this notice and register
for the duration of the authorized
employment for a minimum of six
semester or quarter hours of instruction
per academic term if at the
undergraduate level, or for a minimum
of three semester or quarter hours of
instruction per academic term if the
student is at the graduate level; 54 and
(d) The off-campus employment is
necessary to alleviate severe economic
hardship to the individual as a direct
result of the current crisis in Sudan.
Processing. To facilitate prompt
adjudication of the student’s application
for off-campus employment
authorization under 8 CFR
214.2(f)(9)(ii)(C), the F–1 nonimmigrant
student should do both of the following:
(a) Ensure that the application
package includes the following
documents:
(1) A completed Form I–765 with all
applicable supporting evidence;
(2) The required fee or properly
documented fee waiver request as
defined in 8 CFR 103.7(c) (Oct. 1, 2020);
and
(3) A signed and dated copy of the
student’s Form I–20 with the
appropriate DSO recommendation, as
previously described in this notice; and
(b) Send the application in an
envelope which is clearly marked on the
front of the envelope, bottom right-hand
side, with the phrase ‘‘SPECIAL
STUDENT RELIEF.’’ 55 Failure to
include this notation may result in
significant processing delays.
If USCIS approves the student’s Form
I–765, USCIS will send the student a
Form I–766 EAD as evidence of
employment authorization. The EAD
will contain an expiration date that does
not exceed the end of the granted
temporary relief.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS)
Considerations
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with NOTICES1
Can an F–1 nonimmigrant student apply
for TPS and for benefits under this
notice at the same time?
Yes. An F–1 nonimmigrant student
who has not yet applied for TPS or for
other relief that reduces the student’s
course load per term and permits an
increased number of work hours per
week, such as Special Student Relief,56
under this notice has two options.
Under the first option, the F–1
nonimmigrant student may apply for
54 8
CFR 214.2(f)(5)(v).
for direct filing addresses can be
found here: https://www.uscis.gov/i-765-addresses.
56 See DHS Study in the States, Special Student
Relief, https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/students/
special-student-relief (last visited May 10, 2023).
55 Guidance
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TPS according to the instructions in the
USCIS notice designating Sudan for TPS
elsewhere in this issue of the Federal
Register. All TPS applicants must file a
Form I–821, Application for Temporary
Protected Status, with the appropriate
fee (or request a fee waiver). Although
not required to do so, if F–1
nonimmigrant students want to obtain a
new TPS-related EAD that is valid
through April 19, 2025, and to be
eligible for automatic EAD extensions
that may be available to certain EADs
with an A–12 or C–19 category code,
they must file Form I–765 and pay the
Form I–765 fee (or request a fee waiver).
After receiving the TPS-related EAD, an
F–1 nonimmigrant student may request
that their DSO make the required entry
in SEVIS and issue an updated Form I–
20, which notates that the
nonimmigrant student has been
authorized to carry a reduced course
load, as described in this notice. As long
as the F–1 nonimmigrant student
maintains the minimum course load
described in this notice, does not
otherwise violate their nonimmigrant
status, including as provided under 8
CFR 214.1(g), and maintains TPS, then
the student maintains F–1 status and
TPS concurrently.
Under the second option, the F–1
nonimmigrant student may apply for an
EAD under Special Student Relief by
filing Form I–765 with the location
specified in the filing instructions. At
the same time, the F–1 nonimmigrant
student may file a separate TPS
application, but must submit the Form
I–821 according to the instructions
provided in the Federal Register notice
designating Sudan for TPS. If the F–1
nonimmigrant student has already
applied for employment authorization
under Special Student Relief, they are
not required to submit the Form I–765
as part of the TPS application. However,
some nonimmigrant students may wish
to obtain a TPS-related EAD in light of
certain extensions that may be available
to EADs with an A–12 or C–19 category
code that are not available to the C–3
category under which Special Student
Relief falls. The F–1 nonimmigrant
student should check the appropriate
box when filling out Form I–821 to
indicate whether a TPS-related EAD is
being requested. Again, as long as the F–
1 nonimmigrant student maintains the
minimum course load described in this
notice and does not otherwise violate
the student’s nonimmigrant status,
included as provided under 8 CFR
214.1(g), the nonimmigrant will be able
to maintain compliance requirements
for F–1 nonimmigrant student status
while having TPS.
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56863
When a student applies simultaneously
for TPS and benefits under this notice,
what is the minimum course load
requirement while an application for
employment authorization is pending?
The F–1 nonimmigrant student must
maintain normal course load
requirements for a ‘‘full course of
study’’ 57 unless or until the
nonimmigrant student receives
employment authorization under this
notice. TPS-related employment
authorization, by itself, does not
authorize a nonimmigrant student to
drop below twelve credit hours, or
otherwise applicable minimum
requirements (e.g., clock hours for nontraditional academic programs). Once
approved for a TPS-related EAD and
Special Student Relief employment
authorization, as indicated by the DSO’s
required entry in SEVIS and issuance of
an updated Form I–20, the F–1
nonimmigrant student may drop below
twelve credit hours, or otherwise
applicable minimum requirements (with
a minimum of six semester or quarter
hours of instruction per academic term
if at the undergraduate level, or for a
minimum of three semester or quarter
hours of instruction per academic term
if at the graduate level). See 8 CFR
214.2(f)(5)(v), (f)(6), and (f)(9)(i) and (ii).
How does a student who has received a
TPS-related EAD then apply for
authorization to take a reduced course
load under this notice?
There is no further application
process with USCIS if a student has
been approved for a TPS-related EAD.
The F–1 nonimmigrant student must
demonstrate and provide
documentation to the DSO of the direct
economic hardship resulting from the
current crisis in Sudan. The DSO will
then verify and update the student’s
record in SEVIS to enable the F–1
nonimmigrant student with TPS to
reduce the course load without any
further action or application. No other
EAD needs to be issued for the F–1
nonimmigrant student to have
employment authorization.
Can a noncitizen who has been granted
TPS apply for reinstatement of F–1
nonimmigrant student status after the
noncitizen’s F–1 nonimmigrant student
status has lapsed?
Yes. Regulations permit certain
students who fall out of F–1
nonimmigrant student status to apply
for reinstatement. See 8 CFR
214.2(f)(16). This provision may apply
to students who worked on a TPSrelated EAD or dropped their course
57 See
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load before publication of this notice,
and therefore fell out of student status.
These students must satisfy the criteria
set forth in the F–1 nonimmigrant
student status reinstatement regulations.
How long will this notice remain in
effect?
This notice grants temporary relief
until April 19, 2025,58 to eligible F–1
nonimmigrant students. DHS will
continue to monitor the situation in
Sudan. Should the special provisions
authorized by this notice need
modification or extension, DHS will
announce such changes in the Federal
Register.
ddrumheller on DSK120RN23PROD with NOTICES1
Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA)
An F–1 nonimmigrant student seeking
off-campus employment authorization
due to severe economic hardship
resulting from the current crisis in
Sudan must demonstrate to the DSO
that this employment is necessary to
avoid severe economic hardship. A DSO
who agrees that a nonimmigrant student
should receive such employment
authorization must recommend an
application approval to USCIS by
entering information in the remarks
field of the student’s SEVIS record. The
authority to collect this information is
in the SEVIS collection of information
currently approved by the Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) under
OMB Control Number 1653–0038.
This notice also allows an eligible F–
1 nonimmigrant student to request
employment authorization, work an
increased number of hours while the
academic institution is in session, and
reduce their course load while
continuing to maintain F–1
nonimmigrant student status.
To apply for employment
authorization, certain F–1
nonimmigrant students must complete
and submit a currently approved Form
I–765 according to the instructions on
the form. OMB has previously approved
the collection of information contained
on the current Form I–765 under OMB
Control Number 1615–0040. Although
there will be a slight increase in the
number of Form I–765 filings because of
this notice, the number of filings
currently contained in the OMB annual
58 Because the suspension of requirements under
this notice applies throughout an academic term
during which the suspension is in effect, DHS
considers an F–1 nonimmigrant student who
engages in a reduced course load or employment (or
both) after this notice is effective to be engaging in
a ‘‘full course of study,’’ see 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6), and
eligible for employment authorization, through the
end of any academic term for which such student
is matriculated as of April 19, 2025, provided the
student satisfies the minimum course load
requirements in this notice.
VerDate Sep<11>2014
18:17 Aug 18, 2023
Jkt 259001
inventory for Form I–765 is sufficient to
cover the additional filings.
Accordingly, there is no further action
required under the PRA.
Alejandro Mayorkas,
Secretary, U.S. Department of Homeland
Security.
[FR Doc. 2023–17871 Filed 8–18–23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 9111–28–P
DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND
SECURITY
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration
Services
[CIS No. 2746–23; DHS Docket No. USCIS–
2014–0003]
RIN 1615–ZB92
Extension and Redesignation of Sudan
for Temporary Protected Status
U.S. Citizenship and
Immigration Services (USCIS),
Department of Homeland Security
(DHS).
ACTION: Notice of Temporary Protected
Status (TPS) extension and
redesignation.
AGENCY:
Through this notice, the
Department of Homeland Security
(DHS) announces that the Secretary of
Homeland Security (Secretary) is
extending the designation of Sudan for
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18
months, beginning on October 20, 2023,
and ending on April 19, 2025. This
extension allows existing TPS
beneficiaries to retain TPS through
April 19, 2025, so long as they
otherwise continue to meet the
eligibility requirements for TPS.
Existing TPS beneficiaries who wish to
extend their status through April 19,
2025, must re-register during the 60-day
re-registration period described in this
notice. The Secretary is also
redesignating Sudan for TPS. The
redesignation of Sudan allows
additional Sudanese nationals (and
individuals having no nationality who
last habitually resided in Sudan) who
have been continuously residing in the
United States since August 16, 2023 to
apply for TPS for the first time during
the initial registration period described
under the redesignation information in
this notice. In addition to demonstrating
continuous residence in the United
States since August 16, 2023 and
meeting other eligibility criteria, initial
applicants for TPS under this
designation must demonstrate that they
have been continuously physically
present in the United States since
SUMMARY:
PO 00000
Frm 00073
Fmt 4703
Sfmt 4703
October 20, 2023, the effective date of
this redesignation of Sudan for TPS.
DATES:
Extension of Designation of Sudan for
TPS: The 18-month designation of
Sudan for TPS begins on October 20,
2023, and will remain in effect for 18
months, ending on April 19, 2025. The
extension impacts existing beneficiaries
of TPS.
Re-registration: The 60-day reregistration period for existing
beneficiaries runs from August 21, 2023
through October 20, 2023. (Note: It is
important for re-registrants to timely reregister during the registration period
and not to wait until their Employment
Authorization Documents (EADs)
expire, as delaying reregistration could
result in gaps in their employment
authorization documentation.)
Redesignation of Sudan for TPS: The
18-month redesignation of Sudan for
TPS begins on October 20, 2023, and
will remain in effect for 18 months,
ending on April 19, 2025. The
redesignation impacts potential firsttime applicants and others who do not
currently have TPS.
First-time Registration: The initial
registration period for new applicants
under the Sudan TPS redesignation
begins on August 21, 2023 and will
remain in effect through April 19, 2025.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT:
• You may contact Rena´ CutlipMason, Chief, Humanitarian Affairs
Division, Office of Policy and Strategy,
U.S. Citizenship and Immigration
Services, Department of Homeland
Security, by mail at 5900 Capital
Gateway Drive, Camp Springs, MD
20746, or by phone at 800–375–5283.
• For further information on TPS,
including guidance on the registration
process and additional information on
eligibility, please visit the USCIS TPS
web page at https://www.uscis.gov/tps.
You can find specific information about
Sudan’s TPS designation by selecting
‘‘Sudan’’ from the menu on the left side
of the TPS web page.
• If you have additional questions
about TPS, please visit uscis.gov/tools.
Our online virtual assistant, Emma, can
answer many of your questions and
point you to additional information on
our website. If you are unable to find
your answers there, you may also call
our USCIS Contact Center at 800–375–
5283 (TTY 800–767–1833).
• Applicants seeking information
about the status of their individual cases
may check Case Status Online, available
on the USCIS website at uscis.gov, or
visit the USCIS Contact Center at
https://www.uscis.gov/contactcenter.
E:\FR\FM\21AUN1.SGM
21AUN1
]]>Agencies
[Federal Register Volume 88, Number 160 (Monday, August 21, 2023)]
[Notices]
[Pages 56857-56864]
From the Federal Register Online via the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]
[FR Doc No: 2023-17871]
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DEPARTMENT OF HOMELAND SECURITY
U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement
[Docket No. ICEB-2023-0004]
RIN 1653-ZA39
Employment Authorization for Sudanese F-1 Nonimmigrant Students
Experiencing Severe Economic Hardship as a Direct Result of the Current
Crisis in Sudan
AGENCY: U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement; Department of
Homeland Security.
ACTION: Notice.
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SUMMARY: This notice announces that the Secretary of Homeland Security
(Secretary) is suspending certain regulatory requirements for F-1
nonimmigrant students whose country of citizenship is Sudan, regardless
of country of birth (or individuals having no nationality who last
habitually resided in Sudan), and who are experiencing severe economic
hardship as a direct result of the current crisis in Sudan. The
Secretary is taking action to provide relief to these Sudanese students
who are in lawful F-1 nonimmigrant student status, so the students may
request employment authorization, work an increased number of hours
while school is in session, and reduce their course load while
continuing to maintain their F-1 nonimmigrant student status. The U.S.
Department of Homeland Security (DHS) will deem an F-1 nonimmigrant
student granted employment authorization by means of this notice to
[[Page 56858]]
be engaged in a ``full course of study'' for the duration of the
employment authorization, if the nonimmigrant student satisfies the
minimum course load requirement described in this notice.
DATES: This action is effective October 20, 2023, through April 19,
2025.
FOR FURTHER INFORMATION CONTACT: Sharon Snyder, Unit Chief, Policy and
Response Unit, Student and Exchange Visitor Program, MS 5600, U.S.
Immigration and Customs Enforcement, 500 12th Street SW, Washington, DC
20536-5600; email: [email protected], telephone: (703) 603-3400. This is
not a toll-free number. Program information can be found at https://www.ice.gov/sevis/.
SUPPLEMENTARY INFORMATION:
What action is DHS taking under this notice?
The Secretary is exercising authority under 8 CFR 214.2(f)(9) to
temporarily suspend the applicability of certain requirements governing
on-campus and off-campus employment for F-1 nonimmigrant students whose
country of citizenship is Sudan regardless of country of birth (or
individuals having no nationality who last habitually resided in
Sudan), who are present in the United States in lawful F-1 nonimmigrant
student status on the date of publication of this notice, and who are
experiencing severe economic hardship as a direct result of the current
crisis in Sudan. The original notice, which suspended certain
regulatory requirements for F-1 nonimmigrant students experiencing
severe economic hardship as a direct result of the crisis at that time
is effective from April 19, 2022, through October 19, 2023. See 87 FR
23195 (Apr. 19, 2022). Effective with this publication, suspension of
the employment limitations is available through April 19, 2025, for
those who are in lawful F-1 nonimmigrant status on the date of
publication of this notice. DHS will deem an F-1 nonimmigrant student
granted employment authorization through this notice to be engaged in a
``full course of study'' for the duration of the employment
authorization, if the student satisfies the minimum course load set
forth in this notice.\1\ See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6)(i)(F).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\1\ Because the suspension of requirements under this notice
applies throughout an academic term during which the suspension is
in effect, DHS considers an F-1 nonimmigrant student who engages in
a reduced course load or employment (or both) after this notice is
effective to be engaging in a ``full course of study,'' see 8 CFR
214.2(f)(6), and eligible for employment authorization, through the
end of any academic term for which such student is matriculated as
of April 19, 2025, provided the student satisfies the minimum course
load requirements in this notice.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Who is covered by this notice?
This notice applies exclusively to F-1 nonimmigrant students who
meet all of the following conditions:
(1) Are a citizen of Sudan regardless of country of birth (or an
individual having no nationality who last habitually resided in Sudan);
(2) Were lawfully present in the United States on the date of
publication of this notice in F-1 nonimmigrant status under section
101(a)(15)(F)(i) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA), 8 U.S.C.
1101(a)(15)(F)(i);
(3) Are enrolled in an academic institution that is Student and
Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP)-certified for enrollment for F-1
nonimmigrant students;
(4) Are currently maintaining F-1 nonimmigrant status; and
(5) Are experiencing severe economic hardship as a direct result of
the current crisis in Sudan.
This notice applies to F-1 nonimmigrant students in an approved
private school in kindergarten through grade 12, public school grades 9
through 12, and undergraduate and graduate education. An F-1
nonimmigrant student covered by this notice who transfers to another
SEVP-certified academic institution remains eligible for the relief
provided by means of this notice.
Why is DHS taking this action?
DHS is taking action to provide relief to Sudanese F-1 nonimmigrant
students experiencing severe economic hardship due to the current
crisis in Sudan. Based on its review of country conditions in Sudan and
input received from the U.S. Department of State (DOS), DHS is taking
action to allow eligible F-1 nonimmigrant students from Sudan to
request employment authorization, work an increased number of hours
while school is in session, and reduce their course load while
continuing to maintain F-1 nonimmigrant student status.
In August 2019, a transitional government,\2\ known as the
Sovereign Council, comprised of military and civilian members, was
established in Sudan.\3\ General Abdel Fatah al-Burhan, a top military
figure in the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) led the council.\4\ General
Mohammed Hamdan Dagalo, also known as Hemedti, head of the Rapid
Support Forces (RSF),\5\ served as the deputy to General al-Burhan.\6\
On August 20, 2021, Dr. Abdalla Hamdok was sworn in as the prime
minister of Sudan.\7\ However, on October 25, 2021, Sudan faced a
military takeover of the transitional government led by General al-
Burhan with the support of General Hemedti.\8\ Prime Minister Hamdok
was removed from power and taken to an undisclosed location. In
December 2021, General al-Burhan ``issued an edict giving authorities
sweeping powers to clamp down on dissent, including granting security
officers immunity from prosecution in carrying out these orders.'' \9\
Prime Minister Hamdock was eventually freed and officially resigned as
the Sudanese prime minister on January 2, 2022.\10\
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\2\ The Sovereign Council removed Sudan's former President Omar
al-Bashir, after 30 years in power. After Bashir, A New Dawn in
Sudan? U.S. Institute of Peace, April 17, 2019, available at https://www.usip.org/publications/2019/04/after-bashir-new-dawn-sudan-part-1 (last visited on Apr. 17, 2023).
\3 \ 2020 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices: Sudan, DOS,
March 30, 2020, available at https://www.state.gov/reports/2020-country-reports-on-human-rights-practices/sudan/ (last visited on
Apr. 17, 2023).
\4\ Id.
\5 \ Rapid Support Forces (RSF) is a paramilitary force
established in 2013 by former President al-Bashir. It was
``fashioned out of Janjaweed militias and was assembled in response
to anti-government rebel movements in Darfur.'' ``It has also been
accused of a myriad of human rights abuses in Darfur and
elsewhere.'' The Rapid Support Forces and the Escalation of Violence
in Sudan, ACLED, July 2019, acleddata.com/2019/07/02/the-rapid-support-forces-and-the-escalation-of-violence-in-sudan/ (last
visited May 10, 2023).
\6 \ Sudan strongman is seen as an insider with powerful allies,
AP News, October 27, 2021, available at https://apnews.com/article/sudan-who-is-abdel-fattah-burhan-3f2d4d660fabf1b526f09f04808af7c8
(last visited on Apr. 17, 2023).
\7 \ 2019 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices: Sudan, U.S.
Department of State, March 30, 2020, available at https://www.state.gov/reports/2019-country-reports-on-human-rights-practices/sudan/ (last visited Apr. 17, 2023).
\8 \ Appetite for Destruction: The Military Counterrevolution in
Sudan, ACLED, October 29, 2021, available at https://acleddata.com/2021/10/29/appetite-for-destruction-the-military-counter-revolution-in-sudan/ (last visited July 25, 2023).
\9 \ Watch List 2022; Sudan: Toward a Reset for the Transition,
International Crisis Group, Jan. 27, 2022, available at https://www.ecoi.net/en/document/2069005.html (last visited Mar. 29, 2023).
\10 \ Sudan coup: Prime Minister Abdalla Hamdok resigns after
mass protests, BBC News, 3 Jan. 2022, available at https://www.bbc.com/news/world-africa-59855246 (last visited May 10, 2022).
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In February 2023, the United Nations (UN) Panel of Experts on Sudan
reported that Sudan continued to face a political crisis at the
national level, with regular demonstrations against the rule of the
military.\11\ It further reported that a path to a transition towards a
fully
[[Page 56859]]
civilian government remained unclear.\12\ Moreover, the UN Security
Council reported, in September 2022, that the lack of a political
agreement and a fully functioning government contributed to insecurity
in various parts of Sudan, as well as to the deterioration of the
economic and humanitarian situation.\13\
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\11\ Letter dated 7 February 2023 from the Panel of Experts on
the Sudan addressed to the President of the Security Council; Final
report of the Panel of Experts on the Sudan, UN Security Council,
February 7, 2023, available at https://www.ecoi.net/en/file/local/2087153/N2303752.pdf (last visited Mar. 29, 2023).
\12\ Id.
\13\ Situation in Sudan and the activities of the UNITAMS, UN
Security Council, September 2, 2022, available at https://www.ecoi.net/en/file/local/2078615/N2258000-1.pdf (last visited Mar.
29, 2023).
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In April 2023, tensions between General Burhan and General Hemedti
led to armed conflict between the Sudanese Armed Forces (SAF) and the
RSF.\14\ The conflict was caused by a disagreement over how the RSF
would be integrated into the SAF.\15\ On April 16, 2023, the UN Office
for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs (UNOCHA) further reported
on security conditions in the country stating that clashes between the
SAF and the RSF erupted in Khartoum just before 9:00 a.m. on April 15,
2023. Additionally, heavy gunfire and explosions were heard from
several locations in Khartoum. The RSF released a statement claiming to
have taken control of Khartoum International Airport, the Presidential
Palace, state television, and other key locations in the city. News of
clashes at the military base in Merowe in Northern State and heavy
exchanges of fire at the Soba military base in the south of Khartoum
were also reported around the same time. Shortly after, heavy fighting
was heard at the airport and the Sudanese Air Force attacked RSF
positions from the air. Several civilian planes were reportedly
damaged, and unconfirmed reports have indicated that the damaged
aircraft includes the only UN Humanitarian Air Service (UNHAS) fixed-
wing plane still in service following a recent funding shortage.\16\
The United States Agency for International Development (USAID) reports
that at least 3,900 people have been killed since the conflict began,
although the true toll is likely much higher.\17\
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\14\ ``In January 2015, the RSF, which had been operating under
the command of the National Intelligence Security Services, became
part of the regular government forces through a constitutional
amendment. In April 2015, the RSF were placed under the command of
the Presidency. In January 2017, the Parliament passed the Rapid
Support Forces Act, integrating those forces into the Sudan Armed
Forces.'' Report of the Secretary-General on children and armed
conflict in Sudan, UN Security Council, March 6, 2017, available at
https://www.un.org/ga/search/view_doc.asp?symbol=S/2017/191&referer=/english/&Lang=E (last visited Apr. 17, 2023).
\15\ Dozens of civilians are dead as rival military factions
batter for control of Sudan, National Public Radio, April 17, 2023,
available at https://www.npr.org/2023/04/16/1170289462/sudans-army-and-rsf-are-doing-battle-leaving-56-civilians-dead (last visited
Apr. 17, 2023).
\16\ Sudan Situation Report, UNOCHA, April 17, 2023, available
at https://reliefweb.int/report/sudan/sudan-clashes-between-sudanese-armed-forces-and-rapid-support-forces-flash-update-16-april-2023-enar (last visited July 25, 2023).
\17\ Sudan--Complex Emergency Fact Sheet #15, Fiscal Year (FY)
2023, USAID, available at https://reliefweb.int/report/sudan/sudan-complex-emergency-fact-sheet-15-fiscal-year-fy-2023 (last visited
August 4, 2023).
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Economic Situation
Sudan's political stalemate has negatively impacted its
economy.\18\ In 2022, Sudan's government devalued its currency, causing
the inflation rate to surpass 300 percent.\19\ In 2022, Sudan's economy
remained highly dependent on agriculture, which contributes to nearly a
third of the country's gross domestic product (GDP), and provides
livelihoods to approximately two-thirds of Sudan's population.\20\
However, the rising prices of fuel, agricultural tools, and fertilizer
has impeded local production costs further eroding the already limited
purchasing power of the majority of the population.\21\
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\18\ Sudan: Overview Complex Crisis, Assessments Capacities
Project (ACAPS) April 13, 2022, available at https://www.acaps.org/country/sudan/crisis/violence-in-darfur-and-kordofan-regions (last
visited Apr. 11, 2023).
\19\ Id.
\20\ Humanitarian Needs Overview Sudan 2023, UNOCHA, November 2,
2022, available at file:///C:/Users/RMoehri/AppData/Local/Temp/1/
MicrosoftEdgeDownloads/1437637c-ce66-4ebe-9716-e86db118cf30/
SDN_2023-HNO.pdf (last visited July 26, 2023).
\21\ Id.
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Moreover, continued insecurity, inter-communal violence and rising
floods led to price hikes of basic services in Sudan.\22\ Continued
increases in the prices of food and transportation, and the local food
basket are expected to continue impacting the purchasing power of poor
households and likely drive an increase in the inflation rate. The Food
and Agriculture Organization (FAO) estimate that 5.6 million people are
affected by the dry spells in addition to the 9.8 million people that
are food insecure due to the current economic crisis, as well as fuel
and price hikes.\23\ In April 2023, the Famine Early Warning System
Network, reported that ``Sudan's economic conditions remain poor, as
low foreign currency reserves and currency depreciation resulted in
high inflation rates.'' \24\
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\22\ Sudan: Overview Complex Crisis, ACAPS April 13, 2022,
available at https://www.acaps.org/fileadmin/Data_Product/Main_media/20220324_acaps_global_risk_report_march_2022.pdf (last
visited July 25, 2023).
\23\ Sudan: Situation Report, UNOCHA, available at file://
one.dhs/wpaas-ice/ten3-homedir/RMOEHRI/Downloads/
Situation%20Report%20-%20Sudan%20-%2027%20Mar%202022.pdf (last
visited July 25, 2023).
\24\ Sudan Key Message Update: Exceedingly high cost of living
and conflict undermine benefits of harvest, March 2023, Famine Early
Warning System Network, April 6, 2023, available at https://reliefweb.int/report/sudan/sudan-key-message-update-exceedingly-high-cost-living-and-conflict-undermine-benefits-harvest-march-2023
(last visited May 17, 2023).
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Numbers at a Glance
Number of People in Need: 24,700,000 (since December 14,
2022, as of May 17, 2023) \25\
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\25\ Sudan Key Figures, UNOCHA, available at https://m.reliefweb.int/country/220/sdn?figures-display=all (last visited
Apr. 17, 2023).
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Children in Need: 8,500,000 (since December 14, 2021, as
of December 5, 2022) \26\
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\26\ Id.
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People Internally Displaced: 2,613,036(since July 11,
2023, as of July 18, 2023) \27\
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\27\ Id.
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People Affected by Floods: 348,724 \28\
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\28\ Sudan: Floods: People & areas affected, UNOCHA, October 2,
2022, available at https://reliefweb.int/map/sudan/sudan-floods-people-areas-affected-02-october-2022 (last visited Apr. 17, 2023).
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People in Food Crisis/Emergency: 11,700,000 (since April
30, 2022, as of June 21, 2022) \29\
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\29\ Sudan Key Figures, UNOCHA, available at https://m.reliefweb.int/country/220/sdn?figures-display=all (last visited
Apr. 17, 2023).
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Displacement
As of March 2023, there were more than 3.8 million Internally
Displaced Person(s) (IDPs) in Sudan, and this figure has increased
since conflict began in April 2023.\30\ In November 2022, UNOCHA
reported that at least 2 million IDPs were under the age of 18 and had
been displaced for most of their lives, and that 52 percent of IDPs
were female.\31\
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\30\ International Organization for Migration (IOM), DTM Sudan--
Situation Report (16), Aug 8, 2023, https://dtm.iom.int/reports/dtm-sudan-situation-report-16 (last visited Aug. 9, 2023)
\31\ Humanitarian Needs Overview Sudan 2023, UNOCHA, November 2,
2022, available to download at https://reliefweb.int/report/sudan/sudan-humanitarian-needs-overview-2023-november-2022?_gl=1*1a32v0y*_ga*MjA2NjI5MjkzOS4xNjkwMzcxNzYy*_ga_E60ZNX2F68*MT
Y5MDM3MTc2MS4xLjEuMTY5MDM3MTgwNS4xNi4wLjA. (last visited July 25,
2023).
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Moreover, the living conditions for IDPs in Sudan remains dire, as
many IDPs have been displaced multiple times and have been traumatized,
physically abused, injured, or have lost family members, personal
belongings, shelters, villages and access to land, water points and
firewood collection.\32\
[[Page 56860]]
UNOCHA reported in November 2022 that the majority of IDPs continue to
reside in temporary sites and are unable to return to their homes or
previous displacement sites due to security concerns.\33\
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\32\ Id.
\33\ Sudan Flash Update: Conflict in Blue Nile State, Flash
Update No. 07 (3 November 2023), UNOCHA, available at https://reports.unocha.org/en/country/sudan/card/1LiGbNBeVA/ (last visited
July 25, 2023).
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Forced displacement due to conflict is concentrated in Darfur's
states, which host 85 percent of Sudan's total IDP population.\34\ In
July 2022, rising inter-communal violence in the Blue Nile region
resulted in the forced displacement of some additional 12,800
people.\35\ The UN Integrated Transition Assistance Mission in Sudan
(UNITAMS) further reported that, in March 2023, local violence in
Darfur, Blue Nile, and South and West Kordofan that mainly concerned
access to and control of resources contributed to the displacement of
civilians. Over 16,000 people were displaced due to violence between
December 2022 and February 2023.\36\
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\34\ Clashes displace thousands in Darfur, UN News, available at
https://news.un.org/en/story/2021/12/1107292 (last visited July 25,
2023).
\35\ Sudan: Displacement due to conflict in Blue Nile state,
UNOCHA, available at file:///C:/Users/RMoehri/AppData/Local/Temp/5/
MicrosoftEdgeDownloads/6a6ada21-4fb3-4037-97c4-e30d13f460c6/
20220728_acaps_briefing_note_sudan_displacement_in_blue_nile_state_0%
20(1).pdf (last visited July 25, 2023).
\36\ Id.
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Food Security
The number of food insecure people in Sudan continued to increase
in 2022.\37\ In September 2022, the UN reported that almost one quarter
of the population was estimated to be facing acute hunger.\38\ In
addition, according to ACAPS, in 2022 at least three million children
under the age of five suffered from malnutrition.\39\
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\37\ Humanitarian Needs Overview Sudan 2023, UNOCHA, November 2,
2022, available at https://reliefweb.int/report/sudan/sudan-humanitarian-needs-overview-2023-november-2022 (last visited Apr. 7,
2023).
\38\ Situation in Sudan and the activities of the UNITAMS, UN
Security Council, September 2, 2022, available at https://www.ecoi.net/en/file/local/2078615/N2258000-1.pdf (last visited Mar.
29, 2023).
\39\ Sudan Overview, ACAPS, January 1, 2023, available at
https://www.acaps.org/fileadmin/Data_Product/Main_media/20230419_acaps_briefing_note_sudan_conflict.pdf (last visited July
25, 2023).
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Vulnerable Populations
Members of vulnerable groups, including women and children,
continue to face a range of risks, including gender-based violence
(GBV), as well as other human rights abuses.\40\ In 2022, gender-based
violence remained a grave concern across Sudan.\41\ In February 2023,
UNITAMS reported that the UN Joint Human Rights Office continued to
receive reports of sexual violence against women from camps for IDPs
who engage in livelihood activities outside the camps.\42\ There have
also been several reports of security forces engaging in sexual
violence against women across the country, reportedly to discourage
their participation in protests and demonstrations.\43\
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\40\ Humanitarian Needs Overview Sudan 2023, UNOCHA, November 2,
2022, available at file:///C:/Users/RMoehri/AppData/Local/Temp/5/
MicrosoftEdgeDownloads/d53a1d63-7c1f-4270-a55b-486349498546/
SDN_2023-HNO.pdf (last visited July 25, 2023).
\41\ Id.
\42\ Sudan: Humanitarian Key Messages (February 2023), UNOCHA,
February 26, 2023, https://reliefweb.int/report/sudan/sudan-humanitarian-key-messages-february-2023 (last visited on July 25,
2023).
\43\ 2022 Country Reports on Human Rights Practices: Sudan, U.S.
Department of State, March 23, 2023, available at https://www.state.gov/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/415610_SUDAN-2022-HUMAN-RIGHTS-REPORT.pdf (last visited Apr. 7, 2023).
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As of August 8, 2023, approximately 351 F-1 nonimmigrant students
from Sudan are enrolled at SEVP-certified academic institutions in the
United States. Given the extent of the current crisis in Sudan,
affected students whose primary means of financial support comes from
Sudan may need to be exempt from the normal student employment
requirements to continue their studies in the United States. The
current crisis has made it unfeasible for many students to safely
return to Sudan for the foreseeable future. Without employment
authorization, these students may lack the means to meet basic living
expenses.
What is the minimum course load requirement to maintain valid F-1
nonimmigrant status under this notice?
Undergraduate F-1 nonimmigrant students who receive on-campus or
off-campus employment authorization under this notice must remain
registered for a minimum of six semester or quarter hours of
instruction per academic term. Undergraduate F-1 nonimmigrant students
enrolled in a term of different duration must register for at least one
half of the credit hours normally required under a ``full course of
study.'' See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6)(i)(B) and (F). A graduate-level F-1
nonimmigrant student who receives on-campus or off-campus employment
authorization under this notice must remain registered for a minimum of
three semester or quarter hours of instruction per academic term. See 8
CFR 214.2(f)(5)(v). Nothing in this notice affects the applicability of
other minimum course load requirements set by the academic institution.
In addition, an F-1 nonimmigrant student (either undergraduate or
graduate) granted on-campus or off-campus employment authorization
under this notice may count up to the equivalent of one class or three
credits per session, term, semester, trimester, or quarter of online or
distance education toward satisfying this minimum course load
requirement, unless their course of study is in an English language
study program. See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6)(i)(G). An F-1 nonimmigrant student
attending an approved private school in kindergarten through grade 12
or public school in grades 9 through 12 must maintain ``class
attendance for not less than the minimum number of hours a week
prescribed by the school for normal progress toward graduation,'' as
required under 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6)(i)(E). Nothing in this notice affects
the applicability of federal and state labor laws limiting the
employment of minors.
May an eligible F-1 nonimmigrant student who already has on-campus or
off-campus employment authorization benefit from the suspension of
regulatory requirements under this notice?
Yes. An F-1 nonimmigrant student who is a Sudanese citizen,
regardless of country of birth (or an individual having no nationality
who last habitually resided in Sudan), who already has on-campus or
off-campus employment authorization and is otherwise eligible may
benefit under this notice, which suspends certain regulatory
requirements relating to the minimum course load requirement under 8
CFR 214.2(f)(6)(i) and certain employment eligibility requirements
under 8 CFR 214.2(f)(9). Such an eligible F-1 nonimmigrant student may
benefit without having to apply for a new Form I-766, Employment
Authorization Document (EAD). To benefit from this notice, the F-1
nonimmigrant student must request that their designated school official
(DSO) enter the following statement in the remarks field of the
student's Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS)
record, which the student's Form I-20, Certificate of Eligibility for
Nonimmigrant (F-1) Student Status, will reflect:
Approved for more than 20 hours per week of [DSO must insert
``on-campus'' or ``off-campus,'' depending upon the type of
employment authorization the student already has] employment
authorization and reduced course load under the Special
[[Page 56861]]
Student Relief authorization from [DSO must insert the beginning
date of the notice or the beginning date of the student's
employment, whichever date is later] until [DSO must insert either
the student's program end date, the current EAD expiration date (if
the student is currently authorized for off-campus employment), or
the end date of this notice, whichever date comes first].\44\
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\44\ Because the suspension of requirements under this notice
applies throughout an academic term during which the suspension is
in effect, DHS considers an F-1 nonimmigrant student who engages in
a reduced course load or employment (or both) after this notice is
effective to be engaging in a ``full course of study,'' see 8 CFR
214.2(f)(6), and eligible for employment authorization, through the
end of any academic term for which such student is matriculated as
of April 19, 2025, provided the student satisfies the minimum course
load requirements in this notice.
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Must the F-1 nonimmigrant student apply for reinstatement after
expiration of this special employment authorization if the student
reduces his or her ``full course of study''?
No. DHS will deem an F-1 nonimmigrant student who receives and
comports with the employment authorization permitted under this notice
to be engaged in a ``full course of study'' \45\ for the duration of
the student's employment authorization, provided that a qualifying
undergraduate level F-1 nonimmigrant student remains registered for a
minimum of six semester or quarter hours of instruction per academic
term, and a qualifying graduate level F-1 nonimmigrant student remains
registered for a minimum of three semester or quarter hours of
instruction per academic term. See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(5)(v) and
(f)(6)(i)(F). Undergraduate F-1 nonimmigrant students enrolled in a
term of different duration must register for at least one half of the
credit hours normally required under a ``full course of study.'' See 8
CFR 214.2(f)(6)(i)(B) and (F). DHS will not require such students to
apply for reinstatement under 8 CFR 214.2(f)(16) if they are otherwise
maintaining F-1 nonimmigrant status.
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\45\ See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6).
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Will an F-2 dependent (spouse or minor child) of an F-1 nonimmigrant
student covered by this notice be eligible for employment
authorization?
No. An F-2 spouse or minor child of an F-1 nonimmigrant student is
not authorized to work in the United States and, therefore, may not
accept employment under the F-2 nonimmigrant status, consistent with
8CFR 214.2(f)(15)(i).
Will the suspension of the applicability of the standard student
employment requirements apply to an individual who receives an initial
F-1 visa and makes an initial entry into the United States after the
effective date of this notice in the Federal Register?
No. The suspension of the applicability of the standard regulatory
requirements only applies to certain F-1 nonimmigrant students who meet
the following conditions:
(1) Are a citizen of Sudan regardless of country of birth (or an
individual having no nationality who last habitually resided in Sudan);
(2) Were lawfully present in the United States on the date of
publication of this notice in F-1 nonimmigrant status, under section
101(a)(15)(F)(i) of the INA, 8 U.S.C. 1101(a)(15)(F)(i);
(3) Are enrolled in an academic institution that is SEVP-certified
for enrollment of F-1 nonimmigrant students;
(4) Are maintaining F-1 nonimmigrant status; and
(5) Are experiencing severe economic hardship as a direct result of
the current crisis in Sudan.
An F-1 nonimmigrant student who does not meet all these
requirements is ineligible for the suspension of the applicability of
the standard regulatory requirements (even if experiencing severe
economic hardship as a direct result of the current crisis in Sudan).
Does this notice apply to a continuing F-1 nonimmigrant student who
departs the United States after the effective date of this notice in
the Federal Register and who needs to obtain a new F-1 visa before
returning to the United States to continue an educational program?
Yes. This notice applies to such an F-1 nonimmigrant student, but
only if the DSO has properly notated the student's SEVIS record, which
will then appear on the student's Form I-20. The normal rules for visa
issuance remain applicable to a nonimmigrant who needs to apply for a
new F-1 visa to continue an educational program in the United States.
Does this notice apply to elementary school, middle school, and high
school students in F-1 status?
Yes. However, this notice does not by itself reduce the required
course load for F-1 nonimmigrant students from Sudan enrolled in
kindergarten through grade 12 at a private school, or grades 9 through
12 at a public high school. Such students must maintain the minimum
number of hours of class attendance per week prescribed by the academic
institution for normal progress toward graduation, as required under
8CFR214.2(f)(6)(i)(E). The suspension of certain regulatory
requirements related to employment through this notice is applicable to
all eligible F-1 nonimmigrant students regardless of educational level.
Eligible F-1 nonimmigrant students from Sudan enrolled in an elementary
school, middle school, or high school may benefit from the suspension
of the requirement in 8 CFR 214.2(f)(9)(i) that limits on-campus
employment to 20 hours per week while school is in session.
On-Campus Employment Authorization
Will an F-1 nonimmigrant student who receives on-campus employment
authorization under this notice be authorized to work more than 20
hours per week while school is in session?
Yes. For an F-1 nonimmigrant student covered in this notice, the
Secretary is suspending the applicability of the requirement in 8 CFR
214.2(f)(9)(i) that limits an F-1 nonimmigrant student's on-campus
employment to 20 hours per week while school is in session. An eligible
F-1 nonimmigrant student has authorization to work more than 20 hours
per week while school is in session if the DSO has entered the
following statement in the remarks field of the student's SEVIS record,
which will be reflected on the student's Form I-20:
Approved for more than 20 hours per week of on-campus employment
and reduced course load, under the Special Student Relief
authorization from [DSO must insert the beginning date of this
notice or the beginning date of the student's employment, whichever
date is later] until [DSO must insert the student's program end date
or the end date of this notice, whichever date comes first].\46\
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\46\ Because the suspension of requirements under this notice
applies throughout an academic term during which the suspension is
in effect, DHS considers an F-1 nonimmigrant student who engages in
a reduced course load or employment (or both) after this notice is
effective to be engaging in a ``full course of study,'' see 8 CFR
214.2(f)(6), and eligible for employment authorization, through the
end of any academic term for which such student is matriculated as
of April 19, 2025, provided the student satisfies the minimum course
load requirements in this notice.
To obtain on-campus employment authorization, the F-1 nonimmigrant
student must demonstrate to the DSO that the employment is necessary to
avoid severe economic hardship directly resulting from the current
crisis in Sudan. An F-1 nonimmigrant student authorized by the DSO to
engage in on-campus employment by means of this notice does not need to
file any applications with U.S. Citizenship and
[[Page 56862]]
Immigration Services (USCIS). The standard rules permitting full-time
on-campus employment when school is not in session or during school
vacations apply, as described in 8 CFR 214.2(f)(9)(i).
Will an F-1 nonimmigrant student who receives on-campus employment
authorization under this notice have authorization to reduce the normal
course load and still maintain his or her F-1 nonimmigrant student
status?
Yes. DHS will deem an F-1 nonimmigrant student who receives on-
campus employment authorization under this notice to be engaged in a
``full course of study'' \47\ for the purpose of maintaining their F-1
nonimmigrant student status for the duration of the on-campus
employment, if the student satisfies the minimum course load
requirement described in this notice, consistent with 8 CFR
214.2(f)(6)(i)(F). However, the authorization to reduce the normal
course load is solely for DHS purposes of determining valid F-1
nonimmigrant student status. Nothing in this notice mandates that
school officials allow an F-1 nonimmigrant student to take a reduced
course load if the reduction would not meet the academic institution's
minimum course load requirement for continued enrollment.\48\
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\47 \ See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6).
\48\ Minimum course load requirement for enrollment in a school
must be established in a publicly available document (e.g., catalog,
website, or operating procedure), and it must be a standard
applicable to all students (U.S. citizens and foreign students)
enrolled at the school.
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Off-Campus Employment Authorization
What regulatory requirements does this notice temporarily suspend
relating to off-campus employment?
For an F-1 nonimmigrant student covered by this notice, as provided
under 8 CFR 214.2(f)(9)(ii)(A), the Secretary is suspending the
following regulatory requirements relating to off-campus employment:
(a) The requirement that a student must have been in F-1
nonimmigrant student status for one full academic year to be eligible
for off-campus employment;
(b) The requirement that an F-1 nonimmigrant student must
demonstrate that acceptance of employment will not interfere with the
student's carrying a full course of study;
(c) The requirement that limits an F-1 nonimmigrant student's
employment authorization to no more than 20 hours per week of off-
campus employment while the school is in session; and
(d) The requirement that the student demonstrate that employment
under 8 CFR 214.2(f)(9)(i) is unavailable or otherwise insufficient to
meet the needs that have arisen as a result of the unforeseen
circumstances.
Will an F-1 nonimmigrant student who receives off-campus employment
authorization under this notice have authorization to reduce the normal
course load and still maintain F-1 nonimmigrant status?
Yes. DHS will deem an F-1 nonimmigrant student who receives off-
campus employment authorization by means of this notice to be engaged
in a ``full course of study'' \49\ for the purpose of maintaining F-1
nonimmigrant student status for the duration of the student's
employment authorization if the student satisfies the minimum course
load requirement described in this notice, consistent with 8 CFR
214.2(f)(6)(i)(F). However, the authorization for a reduced course load
is solely for DHS purposes of determining valid F-1 nonimmigrant
student status. Nothing in this notice mandates that school officials
allow an F-1 nonimmigrant student to take a reduced course load if such
reduced course load would not meet the school's minimum course load
requirement.\50\
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\49\ See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6).
\50\ Minimum course load requirement for enrollment in a school
must be established in a publicly available document (e.g., catalog,
website, or operating procedure), and it must be a standard
applicable to all students (U.S. citizens and foreign students)
enrolled at the school.
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How may an eligible F-1 nonimmigrant student obtain employment
authorization for off-campus employment with a reduced course load
under this notice?
An F-1 nonimmigrant student must file a Form I-765, Application for
Employment Authorization, with USCIS to apply for off-campus employment
authorization based on severe economic hardship directly resulting from
the current crisis in Sudan.\51\ Filing instructions are located at
https://www.uscis.gov/i-765.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\51\ See 8 CFR 274a.12(c)(3)(iii).
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Fee considerations. Submission of a Form I-765 currently requires
payment of a $410 fee. An applicant who is unable to pay the fee may
submit a completed Form I-912, Request for Fee Waiver, along with the
Form I-765, Application for Employment Authorization. See https://www.uscis.gov/forms/filing-fees/additional-information-on-filing-a-fee-waiver.The submission must include an explanation about why USCIS
should grant the fee waiver and the reason(s) for the inability to pay,
and any evidence to support the reason(s). See 8 CFR 103.7(c) (Oct. 1,
2020).
Supporting documentation. An F-1 nonimmigrant student seeking off-
campus employment authorization due to severe economic hardship must
demonstrate the following to their DSO:
(1) This employment is necessary to avoid severe economic hardship;
and
(2) The hardship is a direct result of the current crisis in Sudan.
If the DSO agrees that the F-1 nonimmigrant student is entitled to
receive such employment authorization, the DSO must recommend
application approval to USCIS by entering the following statement in
the remarks field of the student's SEVIS record, which will then appear
on that student's Form I-20:
Recommended for off-campus employment authorization in excess of 20
hours per week and reduced course load under the Special Student Relief
authorization from the date of the USCIS authorization noted on Form I-
766 until [DSO must insert the program end date or the end date of this
notice, whichever date comes first].\52\
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\52\ Because the suspension of requirements under this notice
applies throughout an academic term during which the suspension is
in effect, DHS considers an F-1 nonimmigrant student who engages in
a reduced course load or employment (or both) after this notice is
effective to be engaging in a ``full course of study,'' see 8 CFR
214.2(f)(6), and eligible for employment authorization, through the
end of any academic term for which such student is matriculated as
of April 19, 2025, provided the student satisfies the minimum course
load requirements in this notice.
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
The F-1 nonimmigrant student must then file the properly endorsed
Form I-20 and Form I-765 according to the instructions for the Form I-
765. The F-1 nonimmigrant student may begin working off campus only
upon receipt of the EAD from USCIS.
DSO recommendation. In making a recommendation that an F-1
nonimmigrant student be approved for Special Student Relief, the DSO
certifies that:
(a) The F-1 nonimmigrant student is in good academic standing and
is carrying a ``full course of study'' \53\ at the time of the request
for employment authorization;
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\53\ See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
(b) The F-1 nonimmigrant student is a citizen of Sudan, regardless
of country of birth (or an individual having no nationality who last
habitually resided in Sudan), and is experiencing severe economic
hardship as a direct result of the current crisis in Sudan, as
documented on the Form I-20;
(c) The F-1 nonimmigrant student has confirmed that the student
will comply
[[Page 56863]]
with the reduced course load requirements of this notice and register
for the duration of the authorized employment for a minimum of six
semester or quarter hours of instruction per academic term if at the
undergraduate level, or for a minimum of three semester or quarter
hours of instruction per academic term if the student is at the
graduate level; \54\ and
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\54\ 8 CFR 214.2(f)(5)(v).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
(d) The off-campus employment is necessary to alleviate severe
economic hardship to the individual as a direct result of the current
crisis in Sudan.
Processing. To facilitate prompt adjudication of the student's
application for off-campus employment authorization under 8 CFR
214.2(f)(9)(ii)(C), the F-1 nonimmigrant student should do both of the
following:
(a) Ensure that the application package includes the following
documents:
(1) A completed Form I-765 with all applicable supporting evidence;
(2) The required fee or properly documented fee waiver request as
defined in 8 CFR 103.7(c) (Oct. 1, 2020); and
(3) A signed and dated copy of the student's Form I-20 with the
appropriate DSO recommendation, as previously described in this notice;
and
(b) Send the application in an envelope which is clearly marked on
the front of the envelope, bottom right-hand side, with the phrase
``SPECIAL STUDENT RELIEF.'' \55\ Failure to include this notation may
result in significant processing delays.
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\55\ Guidance for direct filing addresses can be found here:
https://www.uscis.gov/i-765-addresses.
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If USCIS approves the student's Form I-765, USCIS will send the
student a Form I-766 EAD as evidence of employment authorization. The
EAD will contain an expiration date that does not exceed the end of the
granted temporary relief.
Temporary Protected Status (TPS) Considerations
Can an F-1 nonimmigrant student apply for TPS and for benefits under
this notice at the same time?
Yes. An F-1 nonimmigrant student who has not yet applied for TPS or
for other relief that reduces the student's course load per term and
permits an increased number of work hours per week, such as Special
Student Relief,\56\ under this notice has two options.
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\56\ See DHS Study in the States, Special Student Relief,
https://studyinthestates.dhs.gov/students/special-student-relief
(last visited May 10, 2023).
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Under the first option, the F-1 nonimmigrant student may apply for
TPS according to the instructions in the USCIS notice designating Sudan
for TPS elsewhere in this issue of the Federal Register. All TPS
applicants must file a Form I-821, Application for Temporary Protected
Status, with the appropriate fee (or request a fee waiver). Although
not required to do so, if F-1 nonimmigrant students want to obtain a
new TPS-related EAD that is valid through April 19, 2025, and to be
eligible for automatic EAD extensions that may be available to certain
EADs with an A-12 or C-19 category code, they must file Form I-765 and
pay the Form I-765 fee (or request a fee waiver). After receiving the
TPS-related EAD, an F-1 nonimmigrant student may request that their DSO
make the required entry in SEVIS and issue an updated Form I-20, which
notates that the nonimmigrant student has been authorized to carry a
reduced course load, as described in this notice. As long as the F-1
nonimmigrant student maintains the minimum course load described in
this notice, does not otherwise violate their nonimmigrant status,
including as provided under 8 CFR 214.1(g), and maintains TPS, then the
student maintains F-1 status and TPS concurrently.
Under the second option, the F-1 nonimmigrant student may apply for
an EAD under Special Student Relief by filing Form I-765 with the
location specified in the filing instructions. At the same time, the F-
1 nonimmigrant student may file a separate TPS application, but must
submit the Form I-821 according to the instructions provided in the
Federal Register notice designating Sudan for TPS. If the F-1
nonimmigrant student has already applied for employment authorization
under Special Student Relief, they are not required to submit the Form
I-765 as part of the TPS application. However, some nonimmigrant
students may wish to obtain a TPS-related EAD in light of certain
extensions that may be available to EADs with an A-12 or C-19 category
code that are not available to the C-3 category under which Special
Student Relief falls. The F-1 nonimmigrant student should check the
appropriate box when filling out Form I-821 to indicate whether a TPS-
related EAD is being requested. Again, as long as the F-1 nonimmigrant
student maintains the minimum course load described in this notice and
does not otherwise violate the student's nonimmigrant status, included
as provided under 8 CFR 214.1(g), the nonimmigrant will be able to
maintain compliance requirements for F-1 nonimmigrant student status
while having TPS.
When a student applies simultaneously for TPS and benefits under this
notice, what is the minimum course load requirement while an
application for employment authorization is pending?
The F-1 nonimmigrant student must maintain normal course load
requirements for a ``full course of study'' \57\ unless or until the
nonimmigrant student receives employment authorization under this
notice. TPS-related employment authorization, by itself, does not
authorize a nonimmigrant student to drop below twelve credit hours, or
otherwise applicable minimum requirements (e.g., clock hours for non-
traditional academic programs). Once approved for a TPS-related EAD and
Special Student Relief employment authorization, as indicated by the
DSO's required entry in SEVIS and issuance of an updated Form I-20, the
F-1 nonimmigrant student may drop below twelve credit hours, or
otherwise applicable minimum requirements (with a minimum of six
semester or quarter hours of instruction per academic term if at the
undergraduate level, or for a minimum of three semester or quarter
hours of instruction per academic term if at the graduate level). See 8
CFR 214.2(f)(5)(v), (f)(6), and (f)(9)(i) and (ii).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
\57\ See 8 CFR 214.2(f)(6).
---------------------------------------------------------------------------
How does a student who has received a TPS-related EAD then apply for
authorization to take a reduced course load under this notice?
There is no further application process with USCIS if a student has
been approved for a TPS-related EAD. The F-1 nonimmigrant student must
demonstrate and provide documentation to the DSO of the direct economic
hardship resulting from the current crisis in Sudan. The DSO will then
verify and update the student's record in SEVIS to enable the F-1
nonimmigrant student with TPS to reduce the course load without any
further action or application. No other EAD needs to be issued for the
F-1 nonimmigrant student to have employment authorization.
Can a noncitizen who has been granted TPS apply for reinstatement of F-
1 nonimmigrant student status after the noncitizen's F-1 nonimmigrant
student status has lapsed?
Yes. Regulations permit certain students who fall out of F-1
nonimmigrant student status to apply for reinstatement. See 8 CFR
214.2(f)(16). This provision may apply to students who worked on a TPS-
related EAD or dropped their course
[[Page 56864]]
load before publication of this notice, and therefore fell out of
student status. These students must satisfy the criteria set forth in
the F-1 nonimmigrant student status reinstatement regulations.
How long will this notice remain in effect?
This notice grants temporary relief until April 19, 2025,\58\ to
eligible F-1 nonimmigrant students. DHS will continue to monitor the
situation in Sudan. Should the special provisions authorized by this
notice need modification or extension, DHS will announce such changes
in the Federal Register.
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\58\ Because the suspension of requirements under this notice
applies throughout an academic term during which the suspension is
in effect, DHS considers an F-1 nonimmigrant student who engages in
a reduced course load or employment (or both) after this notice is
effective to be engaging in a ``full course of study,'' see 8 CFR
214.2(f)(6), and eligible for employment authorization, through the
end of any academic term for which such student is matriculated as
of April 19, 2025, provided the student satisfies the minimum course
load requirements in this notice.
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Paperwork Reduction Act (PRA)
An F-1 nonimmigrant student seeking off-campus employment
authorization due to severe economic hardship resulting from the
current crisis in Sudan must demonstrate to the DSO that this
employment is necessary to avoid severe economic hardship. A DSO who
agrees that a nonimmigrant student should receive such employment
authorization must recommend an application approval to USCIS by
entering information in the remarks field of the student's SEVIS
record. The authority to collect this information is in the SEVIS
collection of information currently approved by the Office of
Management and Budget (OMB) under OMB Control Number 1653-0038.
This notice also allows an eligible F-1 nonimmigrant student to
request employment authorization, work an increased number of hours
while the academic institution is in session, and reduce their course
load while continuing to maintain F-1 nonimmigrant student status.
To apply for employment authorization, certain F-1 nonimmigrant
students must complete and submit a currently approved Form I-765
according to the instructions on the form. OMB has previously approved
the collection of information contained on the current Form I-765 under
OMB Control Number 1615-0040. Although there will be a slight increase
in the number of Form I-765 filings because of this notice, the number
of filings currently contained in the OMB annual inventory for Form I-
765 is sufficient to cover the additional filings. Accordingly, there
is no further action required under the PRA.
Alejandro Mayorkas,
Secretary, U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
[FR Doc. 2023-17871 Filed 8-18-23; 8:45 am]
BILLING CODE 9111-28-P
