Travel (Entering the U.S.)
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Dear International Community,
Regional travel bans remain in place for foreign nationals physically present in Brazil, China, Iran, Ireland, the Schengen Area, South Africa, and the United Kingdom (and now India) within 14 days prior to attempting entry to the U.S. Many U.S. consulates are not accepting visa application appointments, and in some cases are cancelling appointments that had previously been confirmed.
Eligibility for Exceptions to the above Suspension of Entry (Travel Bans)
On April 30, 2021, the Department of State issued a national interest determination regarding categories of travelers eligible for exceptions under regional COVID proclamations. As a result of this determination, students and certain academics covered by exchange visitor programs who are subject to these proclamations due to their presence in China, Iran, Brazil, South Africa, the Schengen area, the United Kingdom, and Ireland, (and now India) may now qualify for a National Interest Exception (NIE). Students and academics subject to these proclamations due to their presence in India, China, Iran, Brazil, or South Africa, may qualify for an NIE only if their academic program begins August 1, 2021 or later. Please check the website of the embassy or consulate nearest your home for specific details.
Whether you need to apply for the NIE depends on which country you are from and whether you have a valid visa. You may use the chart below to help you determine whether you should apply for the NIE. All travelers are advised to consult with their local US embassy or consulate before finalizing any travel arrangements. https://www.usembassy.gov/
| From Schengen Area, the UK and Ireland |
| With a valid visa |
Can travel without seeking NIE |
| Applying for a visa |
Eligible for NIE, consult embassy or consulate for status of visa services |
| From India, China, Iran, Brazil and South Africa |
| With a valid visa |
Can travel without seeking NIE for programs commencing 8/1 or later, no entry earlier than 30 days prior to start of academic studies |
| Applying for a visa |
Eligible for NIE if program starts 8/1 or later, consult embassy or consulate for status of visa services, no entry earlier than 30 days prior to start of academic studies |
Regards,
IPSO staff
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