Presidential Proclamation 10052, which temporarily suspended the entry of certain H-1B, H-2B, J, and L nonimmigrants into the United States, expired as expected on March 31, 2021.
Overview
The proclamation was implemented by the Trump administration to prevent certain foreign nationals in temporary work visa categories from entering the U.S. during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Trump administration's stated reason for issuing the ban was to protect the American workforce and the nation's economy. The ban was initially set to expire on December 31, 2020, but it was extended through March 31, 2021.
What Should Employers and Applicants Know?
Although the proclamation has expired, other travel restrictions related to COVID-19 are still in effect. That includes a travel ban preventing most foreign nationals from entering the U.S. if they have been physically present in China, Iran, Ireland, Brazil, South Africa, the U.K. or the Schengen Area in the past 14 days before attempting entry into the U.S.
All travelers arriving in the United States by air must have documentation confirming negative COVID-19 test results, with results obtained no more than three days before boarding their flight to the United States. Alternatively, they can provide documentation confirming recovery from a recent COVID-19 infection.
Looking Ahead
Updates on travel restrictions to the U.S. will be provided as available. Consulates may continue to experience delays in visa issuance due to staffing limitations.
Originally Published by Envoy, April 2021
The content of this article is intended to provide a general guide to the subject matter. Specialist advice should be sought about your specific circumstances.
