DOS Instructions to Posts Regarding Hurricane Katrina Issues
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DE RUEHC #4170 2500234
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TO ALL DIPLOMATIC AND CONSULAR POSTS COLLECTIVE PRIORITY
RUEHBE/AMEMBASSY BELIZE 2830
RUEHGE/AMEMBASSY GEORGETOWN 1437
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UNCLAS STATE 164170
VISAS
E.O. 12958: N/A
TAGS: CVIS
SUBJECT: GIVING PRIORITY APPOINTMENTS TO FAMILY/NOK OF VICTIMS OF HURRICANE KATRINA AND INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS IN AFFECTED AREAS
1. Due to the tragic events of hurricane Katrina, posts may receive emergency requests for visa interview appointments for family members and next of kin (NOK) of victims. Posts should extend the same humanitarian consideration as they do in other emergency situations and should instruct their call centers to accommodate these emergency cases as quickly as possible.
2. These requests should be limited to immediate family/NOK of victims. If posts receive cases about which they have questions, they should email their post-liaison officer in VO/F/P.
3. Officers should refer applicants searching for loved ones to "safe persons" lists compiled by FEMA at http://www.dhs.gov/dhspublic/. Click on 'finding friends and information'.
4. J1 exchange visitors whose exchange programs have been disrupted by the hurricane should contact their program sponsor.
5. Conoffs should refer inquiries about foreign students and SEVIS to www.ice.gov/SEVIS. The website contains answers to many frequently asked questions and is a good starting point for information. F or M Students currently studying at schools affected by the disaster should first try to contact their designated school official. If the official is unavailable, they should contact the SEVIS office at 202-305-2346 or email SEVIS.source@dhs.gov with their name, DOB, SEVIS ID# and school info. They should advise the SEVIS office if they will delay entry until the school is operational or if they will transfer schools.
6. New F or M students who are unable to contact their school before the report date (block 5 of I-20) will receive a new report date and a new I-20 if the school is operational. If they wish to apply to attend a new school, they should contact that school directly for a new I-20. There is no need to repay the SEVIS fee, but they will have to obtain a new visa with the new school's name annotated on it. They do not/not have to pay the MRV fee again.
7. Any questions on these procedures should be directed to CA/VO/F/P.
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