By Kevin Tung
President Biden has reinstated COVID-19 travel bans for travelers from Brazil, the United Kingdom, European Schengen area countries, and Ireland. Biden has also issued a new travel ban for individuals from South Africa, effective January 30. Foreign nationals may not enter the United States if they have been physically present in any of the banned countries during the previous 14 days. President Biden will review the bans every 30 days.
COVID-19 travel bans impact travelers who have been physically present in over 30 countries, which also include Iran and China. In a separate pandemic safety measure, international travelers entering the United States will also need to show proof of a negative COVID-19 test result or recovery from the virus, starting January 26, 2021.
Certain exemptions are available to the COVID-19 travel ban. Exempted individuals may be subject to additional screening upon entry into the United States. Individuals who are exempt from the travel ban include:
The ban no longer includes an exemption for foreign nationals that do not pose a risk of COVID-19 transmission according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Since South Africa will join the list of banned countries on January 30, businesses should quickly consider the travel plans of employees who may be impacted and determine next steps with the help of their immigration attorney.
The Biden administration has requested the CDC to consider recommendations for a self-quarantine for all travelers entering the US, which could also impact business travelers.
We will provide updates to United States COVID-19 travel policy as soon as they are available. For case-specific questions, please contact your trusted Chugh, LLP attorney.
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