COVID-19 Updates: March 16, 2020
In its effort to control the global spread of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19), the U.S. government has implemented several additional changes that may impact immigration processes and travel for some clients.
USCIS has mandated the re-scheduling of in-person USCIS office appointments for individuals who: a) have traveled internationally to any country outside the United States in the past 14 days; b) believe that they have been exposed to COVID-19 (even if they have not traveled outside the U.S.); or c) are experiencing flu-like symptoms (such as a runny nose, headache, cough, sore throat or fever). If you have an upcoming appointment at a USCIS office, and any of the above apply to you, please contact us to re-schedule your appointment. You can read USCIS’ full policy HERE.
The U.S. will expand its travel restrictions on individuals who have been in Europe and deny entry to foreign nationals who were physically present in the U.K. or Ireland within 14 days of arrival in the U.S. The new restrictions will take effect on Monday, March 16, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. EST. These restrictions exempt U.S. citizens and permanent residents (LPRs) as well as their immediate family members. This is an extension of the restrictions that took effect last Friday, March 13, which deny entry to certain foreign nationals who have visited any of the 26 European nations comprising the Schengen Area. For more information about the new travel restrictions, please see the White House’s official statement HERE.
Finally, U.S. consulates and embassies around the world have been announcing closures and suspension of immigrant and nonimmigrant visa interview services. If you have an upcoming visa interview or appointment, please check with your local U.S. consular office frequently for any updates that may impact you.
Please keep in mind that many U.S. travel and immigration policies are likely to change in the coming days in response to new and unexpected developments in the global COVID-19 response. Sostrin Immigration Lawyers will continue to keep you up to date through regular announcements.