Schengen, U.K., Ireland, and Brazil Travel Restrictions Reinstated, South Africa Added

In an effort to combat the current COVID-19 outbreak, President Biden has issued a proclamation continuing the restrictions on most foreign nationals traveling to the U.S. from the Schengen Area of Europe, the United Kingdom (excluding overseas territories outside of Europe), Ireland, and Brazil, as well as adding restrictions on travelers from South Africa. The restrictions are effective January 26, 2021, at 12:01 a.m. Eastern time, when the restrictions were previously set to be removed under a proclamation from the prior administration.

Foreign nationals who have been in any of these areas at any point during the preceding 14 days before their scheduled arrival to the United States will not be allowed entry into the United States after this proclamation comes into effect.

United States citizens, lawful permanent residents, and their spouses and children are exempt from the restrictions, along with the parents, guardians, and minor siblings (under 21) of U.S. citizens or permanent residents under the age of 21. Noncitizens whose travel may be considered in the National Interest of the United States or are “traveling at the invitation of the United States Government for a purpose related to containment or mitigation of the virus” are exempt as well. For a full list of exemptions please see the Proclamation Text.

This proclamation will remain in effect until terminated by the President. Within the text of the order is a requirement that the administration revisit this proclamation in 30 days, and thereafter by the end of each calendar month, based on a recommendation from the Secretary of Health and Human Services.

For more information about coronavirus, please see the CDC’s website.  Please do not hesitate to contact us at info@sostrin.com if you have any questions or concerns relating to these travel restrictions.