The Icelandic volcano last week has led to major disruptions in international air travel and many international visitors may be stranded in the U.S. due to cancelled flights and closures of European airports. Some foreign nationals may find that they are forced to exceed their authorized stay in the U.S. The U.S. government has been working to provide solutions and has announced two methods for relief for foreign nationals stranded in the U.S.

Foreign nationals at airports and traveling under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) should contact the U.S. Customs and Border Protection Office at the airport. They may also contact the local USCIS office. Staff at both of these offices have been provided with clear guidance on how they can help VWP travelers that are stranded in the U.S.

Foreign nationals traveling to the U.S. under a visa are asked to contact the closest USCIS office to extend their stay in the U.S. While USCIS recommends foreign nationals initiate the extension of stay process 45 days in advance, they are providing guidance to their staff on the best ways to handle cases affected by the Icelandic volcano.