Coronavirus and Immigration | Ask Garry

The World Health Organization has declared the Coronavirus as a “public health emergency of international concern.”

How does this tragic outbreak affect US immigration? USCIS has closed its international offices in Beijing and Ghuangzhou, China. All appointments will be rescheduled. Additionally, USCIS has encouraged everyone who feels sick or has started manifesting symptoms of illness should follow the instructions on the appointment notice and reschedule.

The Center for Disease Control and the President have implemented procedures to help contain the risk that the virus will be spread in the US. For example, foreign nationals who have traveled in China within the past 14 days will not be allowed to enter the US. US Citizens and Lawful Permanent Residents who have visited China in the past 14 days will be directed to one of 11 airports that provide a thorough health screening to determine the risk of infection. There will be restrictions on movement within the US for 14 days from the day the traveler left China.

Travel to China

The Department of State has made it very clear that no one should travel to China due to the Coronavirus.

Travel Ban to Europe

On March 14th, 2020, Trump announced a travel ban to 26 European countries and on March 16th the ban was extended to include the UK and Ireland as well. This ban includes anyone who has traveled to these 28 countries in the past 14 days but excludes U.S. citizens and green cardholders.

As you can see from these instructions, the US government is taking steps to minimize the risk of an outbreak of the Coronavirus in the US. While it may create some inconvenience, the protection of health is justification enough for these kinds of measures taken by the Department of Homeland Security, CDC, the Department of State and the White House.

Limit Travel Plans

The CDC recommends everyone to practice precaution when traveling within the U.S. and to self-quarantine for 14 days if you’ve visited any countries with a Level 3 Travel Health Notice.

Immigration Advice Regarding Coronavirus

This is an ongoing issue and policies regarding Chinese immigration or travel are continuously updating with new developments. We are happy to meet with you for a free consultation to discuss your options. During this time we offering phone and video consultations to help contribute to proper social distancing protocols.