DHS releases advance copies of notices of special student relief and TPS designations for Sudan and Ukraine

Notices of special student relief and TPS. DHS released advance copies for F-1 nonimmigrant students whose country of citizenship is the Republic of Sudan or Ukraine (regardless of country of birth) and who are experiencing severe economic hardship as a result of the crises in those countries. DHS also released advance copies of notices of special student relief and TPS designating both Sudan and Ukraine for Temporary Protected Status (TPS) for 18 months, effective April 19, 2022, Through October 19, 2023. “Special Student Relief (SSR) is a suspension of certain regulatory requirements by the secretary of the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) for an F-1 student from parts of the world that are experiencing emergent circumstances.” Registration for TPS does not prevent you from applying for or maintaining a nonimmigrant status, such as F-1 academic student.

— What students should know now

Notices of Special Student Relief (administrative guidance issued to students or institutions) and Temporary Protected Status (TPS) often interact in ways that affect a student’s SEVIS record, work authorization, and travel options. Therefore, students and school officials should coordinate closely: confirm whether a notice affects SEVIS, whether TPS/EAD will be sought, and how accepting benefits may affect nonimmigrant status or future immigration steps.

What a “Notice of Special Student Relief” typically does

• Provides temporary, case-specific guidance to students or institutions about DHS discretion or SEVIS handling.
• May authorize DSOs to defer termination, allow reduced course loads, or change program end-dates in SEVIS.
• Is administrative—not a benefit like TPS—but it can materially change what a student must do to preserve status while other relief is pending.

How TPS interacts with student status

• TPS provides protection from removal and usually permits an EAD; accepting TPS/EAD can affect F-1 SEVIS status and nonimmigrant intent.
• Concurrent filings (TPS + other benefits) are possible, but timing and intent considerations matter; coordinate with DSO and counsel.
• Travel generally requires Advance Parole while TPS/EAD is in effect—do not travel without counsel confirmation.

Immediate steps for students

1. Save the notice and any DSO communications; treat them as official records.
2. Contact your DSO immediately to confirm SEVIS implications and any I-20 changes.
3. Discuss TPS & EAD trade-offs with counsel and your DSO before filing.
4. Assemble documentation for TPS (identity, continuous-presence proof, school records) if filing is appropriate.
5. Avoid international travel until Advance Parole or clear guidance is obtained.

Evidence & documents to prepare

• Passport page(s) and prior U.S. visa stamps.
• Current I-20 and SEVIS printout; DSO emails regarding the notice.
• Proof of continuous residence: transcripts, lease, paystubs.
• Enrollment verification and school records.
• Copies of any prior immigration filings or EADs.

How we help

We analyze notices and DSO guidance, coordinate with schools to preserve SEVIS, advise on TPS vs. F-1 strategy, prepare I-821/I-765 filings and supporting exhibits, assist with Advance Parole, and respond to RFEs or SEVIS complications.