New Restrictive Immigration Order on the Horizon

There is speculation that within the next few days or weeks, the Trump Administration will issue a new Executive Order that will impact certain nonimmigrant visa categories. Some reports have suggested that the L-1 and H-1B visa categories will be affected. However, at this point in time, nothing has been confirmed. What we do know is that there will be travel restrictions, but we do not know for certain which visa categories it will impact and whether those who already have valid visas will also be restricted from entering the U.S. Due to the uncertainty surrounding the new restrictions, we are recommending that nonimmigrant visa holders exercise utmost caution if they are considering international travel or are currently outside the U.S.

The following precautions are recommended for those who are concerned about the new Executive Order:

1. Do not travel outside the U.S. at this time;
2. If you have a valid visa and are planning to return to the U.S. in the near future, make arrangements to return to the U.S. now to ensure that a possible nonimmigrant travel ban will not impact your ability to return at a later date; and
3. For those waiting to be scheduled for a visa appointment, check to see if you qualify for an emergency visa appointment pursuant to the Consulate’s emergency appointment criteria.

Please note that currently, U.S. Embassies and consular posts worldwide are not scheduling routine visa appointments. Once an official announcement is released by the government, we will provide further updates and guidance.