On November 27, 2024, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced actions to help Lebanese nationals facing the ongoing crisis in Lebanon. First, DHS designated Lebanon for Temporary Protected Status from 11/27/24 to 05/27/26. This designation applies to Lebanese nationals (and individuals without nationality who last resided in Lebanon) who have continuously resided in the U.S. since 10/16/24 and who have been continuously physically present in the U.S. since 11/27/24.

Second, DHS announced that they will provide temporary relief to F-1 nonimmigrant students from Lebanon by allowing those students to request employment authorization, work increased hours during the school term, and reduce their course load, all while maintaining their lawful F-1 status. These changes will also be effective for the same 18-month period from 11/27/24 to 05/27/26.

For more information:

USCIS Notice Designating Lebanon for TPS

ICE Notice for Employment Authorization for Lebanese F-1 Students

This blog post does not serve as legal advice and does not establish any client-attorney privilege. Do not take any action based on the information contained in this post without consulting a qualified immigration attorney. If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact our legal team directly.