Because the recent novel coronavirus outbreak in China, a number of U.S. Embassies & Consulates have announced shut down and reduction of staffing. On February 1, the U.S. Embassy announced that the U.S. Embassy and Consulates will be closed February 3 – 7, 2020. Therefore, Li Law Group expects all immigrant and non-immigrant visas processing in China will be delayed.
The White House on Jan. 31, 2020 announced that pursuant to Section 212(f) and 215(a)of the Immigration and Nationality Act and section 301 of title 3 USC, US will restrict and suspend all aliens who were physically presenting in China during the 14-day period before they enter or attempt to enter the U.S. It is effective 2.2.2020 at 5 pm.
The bar will not include people who were physically present in Hong Kong or Macau during the 14- day before they travel to the U.S. The bar does not only bar Chinese citizens. It bars all non-U.S. citizens who were physically present in China.
It does not include:
Any lawful permanent residents;
Any person who is the spouse of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident;
Any alien who is the parent or legal guardian or a U.S. citizen or LPR, provided that the U.S.C or LPR must be unmarried and under 21 years old.
Any alien who is the sibling of a USC or LPR, provided both are unmarried and under 21.
Any alien came in with C or D visa under the INA section 101(a)(15)(C) or (D)
Any alien who is a child of USC or LPR, or who is a prospective adoptee
Anyone invited by the US government;
Any alien whose entry would not pose a significant risk of introducing the new virus as determined by the CDC director, or his designee;
Any alien whose entry would be sanctioned by the Secretary of State and Secretary of Homeland Security.
Any alien who circumvents the restriction through fraud, willful misrepresentation of a material fact will be priority for removal by the DHS. This restriction and suspension will remain in effect until further modification or termination by the President.
As of Jan. 31. 2020, United Airlines, American Airlines, and Delta Airlines have suspended all flights to and from mainland China. The suspension will be in effect until further notice.
Above information is for education and marketing purposes only. It is not legal advice. It does not create attorney-client relationship.
You can contact Li Law Group at 402-391-2486 or www.lilawgp.com