The U.S. government says Japanese nationals struggling after earthquakes and tsunami are entitled to immigration benefits.

The U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services said in a statement that temporary relief is available upon request.

Eligible nationals of Japan may seek an extension of nonimmigrant status, expedited processing of advance parole requests, quick review of requests for off-campus employment authorization for F-1 students, accelerated employment authorization where appropriate and hastened processing of immigrant petitions for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents.

Japanese visitors traveling under the Visa Waiver Program may visit local immigration offices for assistance.