DOS Expands Certain National Interest Exception Eligibilities to All Countries Subject to U.S. Geographic COVID-19 Entry Bans

On April 26, 2021, the Department of State announced that it is expanding certain national interest exception eligibilities to all countries subject to U.S. geographic COVID-19 entry bans. In addition to the national interest determinations already in place, travelers affected by travel bans due to their presence in China, Iran, Brazil, South Africa, the Schengen area, the United Kingdom, and Ireland, who are entering the U.S. to provide vital support for critical infrastructure; journalists; students and certain academics covered by exchange visitor programs, may now qualify for a National Interest Exception (NIE).  The DOS will continue to grant NIEs for humanitarian travel, public health, and national security. 

Students with valid F-1 and M-1 visas who are entering the U.S. to begin or continue an academic program beginning on August 1, 2021 or later do not need to contact a U.S. consulate to obtain a NIE. They may enter the U.S. no earlier than 30 days before the start of their program of study. Students who require a visa should check the status of visa services at their U.S. consulate and consult with their school’s international office.