Eligibility for FEMA Disaster Relief for Immigrants
Kyle Huffman • October 13, 2023
Recently, a series of natural disasters spanning across the United States have dominated headlines. From the wildfires in Maui, to hurricanes striking both the west and east coast of the continental United States just weeks apart. Collectively, these natural disasters have cost, and are expected to cost the United States tens of billions of dollars in damage.
With the news coverage of these horrible events, many individuals in the United States who are either undocumented or living with temporary status have questions about their eligibility to receive disaster assistance if a natural disaster happens to them. Thankfully, the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) offers clear guidance on this eligibility to receive FEMA Aid in response to a natural disaster or similar emergency.
FEMA does offer assistance, which can take forms including direct financial assistance for rental assistance, home repair, property loss, or medical losses, for qualified non-citizens. In this context, a qualified non-citizen includes any of the following:
- Legal Permanent Residents (“Green Card” holders)
- Non-citizens granted asylum
- Refugees
- Non-citizens whose deportation status is being withheld for at least one year
- Non-citizens paroled into the U.S. for at least one year for urgent humanitarian purposes or significant public benefit
- Cuban/Haitian entrants
- Certain battered non-citizens or their spouses or children
- Certain victims of a severe form of human trafficking, including persons with a “T” or “U” visa
Furthermore, a household may apply for certain forms of assistance on behalf of a qualified minor child, so long as the parent or guardian of the qualifying minor child lives in the same household, and applies as a co-applicant.
If you have any questions about what this means for you, please schedule a consultation with one of our experienced attorneys.
We look forward to working with you.
This blog is not intended to be legal advice and nothing here should be construed as establishing an attorney client relationship. Please schedule a consultation with an immigration attorney before acting on any information read here.
Under the new regulation, if a person filed or files Form I-589, Application for Asylum and for Withholding of Removal after October 1, 2024, and the application remains pending with USCIS for 365 days, the applicant must pay an Annual Asylum Fee (AAF) on the one-year anniversary of his or her filing date.
It’s no secret that the U.S. immigration system has faced increased scrutiny and change in recent months. From evolving policies to headlines filled with uncertainty, it’s understandable that many individuals are left wondering: Is this still the right time to pursue a future in the United States? The answer is yes—and here’s why. Despite the shifting political landscape, the core structure of U.S. immigration law remains firmly in place. While the process may appear more complex or demanding than it once was, the legal pathways to live, work, and thrive in the United States are still open and accessible to those who take the proper steps. What often gets lost in the conversation is that the United States remains a country built on innovation, creativity, and resilience. It continues to attract global talent, entrepreneurs, artists, and professionals from all walks of life. Whether you are launching a business, advancing your career, or seeking a better life for your family, the United States offers unparalleled opportunities to those who are prepared and determined. Much of what makes the United States a global economic and technological leader today is the direct result of contributions made by immigrants. Nearly half of the current Fortune 500 companies were founded by immigrants or their children. Immigrant entrepreneurs have long been an essential part of America’s economic success story. Some of the largest and most recognizable American companies were founded by immigrants or the children of immigrants. This includes household names such as Apple and Costco. Moderna, the pharmaceutical company and vaccine producer, was founded by a Canadian-born stem cell biologist, Derrick J. Rossi, whose parents themselves emigrated from Malta. These success stories are not outliers; they are part of a broader pattern that reflects the drive, innovation, and resilience that immigrants bring to the country. The United States also offers one of the most dynamic and diverse economies in the world. It is a place where hard work, fresh ideas, and entrepreneurial vision are rewarded. For creative professionals, business leaders, and investors, the United States provides a unique platform to grow, connect, and gain global influence. Its competitive marketplace, access to capital, and culture of innovation create unmatched opportunities for those ready to seize them. While the immigration process requires careful planning, that process is far from impossible. Indeed, having strong legal guidance is one of the most effective advantages an applicant can possess. Immigration law is complex, and each case must be evaluated individually. A clear, strategic plan tailored to your background and goals can significantly improve your chances of success. What may feel like a hurdle at first glance is often navigable with solid preparation and documentation. At our immigration law firm, we have had the privilege of assisting individuals from all over the world as they navigate these complexities. Time and again, we have witnessed how determination, careful preparation, and experienced legal counsel can turn uncertainty into opportunity and help transform a vision for the future into reality. If you have been uncertain about whether to move forward, let this be your sign to take the next step. The United States is still a land of possibilities. If you are ready to take that step, now is the time to act. Let us build your path forward together.
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