U.S. Citizenship & Immigration Services Changes Due to Coronavirus

Due to the outbreak of the Coronavirus across the world, the United States Citizenship and Immigration Services has announced a variety of changes that have been implemented within the country throughout this time. These are listed below.

Notification of Arrival Restrictions Applicable to Flights Carrying Persons Recently Present in the UK or Ireland

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced the 3/16/20 decision of the Acting DHS Secretary directing flights carrying persons present in the United Kingdom and Ireland within the period covering 14 days prior to the person’s entry or attempted entry into the U.S. to arrive only at certain airports, beginning 3/17/20. (85 FR 15714, 3/19/20)

CBP Notice of Temporary Travel Restrictions for Land Ports of Entry Between U.S. and Canada

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) announced limiting the travel of individuals from Canada into the United States at land ports of entry to “essential travel.” The restrictions begin at 11:59 pm (ET) on 3/20/20 and remain in effect until 11:59 pm (ET) on 4/20/20. (85 FR 16548, 3/24/20)

CBP Notice of Temporary Travel Restrictions for Land Ports of Entry Between U.S. and Mexico

CBP announced limiting the travel of individuals from Mexico into the United States at land ports of entry to “essential travel.” The restrictions began at 11:59 pm (ET) on 3/20/20 and remain in effect until 11:59 pm (ET) on 4/20/20. (85 FR 16547, 3/24/20)

CBP is temporarily suspending operations at Trusted Traveler Program enrollment centers nationwide from March 19, 2020, until at least May 1, 2020. This temporary closure includes all public access Global Entry enrollment centers, NEXUS enrollment centers, SENTRI enrollment centers, and FAST enrollment locations.

DOS Suspends Routine Visa Services at All U.S. Embassies and Consulates

The Department of State (DOS) announced that, in response to COVID-19, it is suspending routine visa services at all U.S. embassies and consulates. Embassies and consulates will cancel all routine visa appointments as of March 20, 2020. Check the website of the embassy or consulate for its current operating status.

CIS OFFICE CLOSURES

USCIS announced that it is suspending in-person services at its field offices, asylum offices, and Application Support Centers (ASCs) in response to COVID-19. The suspension is effective March 18 until at least April 1. Those needing assistance with emergency services should call the USCIS Contact Center.

USCIS field offices will send notices to applicants and petitioners with scheduled appointments and naturalization ceremonies impacted by this closure. USCIS asylum offices will send interview cancellation notices and automatically reschedule asylum interviews.

Contact our Firm

The Law Offices of Cheryl R. David practices immigration law throughout NYC. Immigration is a sensitive issue, which is why you should consider a compassionate, experienced, and aggressive immigration attorney who will guide you every step of the way. If you have questions about your particular matters regarding immigration please do not hesitate to contact our office to discuss your circumstances and options.