By Nashwa Azzam, Esq., Kan-Tor & Acco
COVID-19 has drastically impacted the rules for travel and employment in the United States. Since the start of the pandemic, new measures and travel restrictions are regularly implemented in order to contain the spread of the corona virus within U.S. borders. Entry to the US during the COVID-19 pandemic is limited and depends on a number of factors including U.S. restrictions, airline policies, and national travel advisories.
Prohibited Travelers:
With limited exceptions, foreign nationals who have been in any of the following countries during the past 14 days are restricted from entering the United States:
- China
- Iran
- Europe: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Monaco, San Marino, Vatican City
United Kingdom: England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland- Republic of Ireland
- Brazil
The land Borders between Canada, U.S. and Mexico remain closed to non-essential travelers.
Permissible Travelers:
- U.S. citizens, legal permanent residents of the U.S (Green Card Holders), and any alien who is the spouse or child of a U.S. citizen are not subject to the U.S. travel bans or restrictions and may enter the U.S. during COVID- 19.
- Non U.S. nationals (aliens) holding valid non-immigrant U.S. visas and who are not subject to country-specific travel bans or restrictions may enter the U.S.
- Aliens that are subject to country-specific travel bans or restrictions may be eligible to apply for a U.S. visa for entry to the US if they meet a national interest exception as determined by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Service or U.S. Department of State. Consult with your KTA case manager for further inquiries.
Before Travel:
Individuals considering travel to the U.S. or employers considering any staffing changes to any employee holding a valid U.S. visa should refer their case-specific inquiries to their KTA case manager.
For the latest information about the novel coronavirus itself and general travel precautions, visit the COVID-19 tracker by clicking here
