As of July 27, 2020, the United States Embassy in London and as of August 3, 2020 the United States Consulate General in Belfast are resuming certain immigrant and nonimmigrant visa services, including; immigrant visas for spouses and children of U.S. citizens; F-1 and M-1 student visa categories.
Whilst the Embassy aim to process cases as soon as practicable, there are likely to be increased wait times for completing such services due to substantial backlogs which could cause delays.
Entry of foreign nationals who were physically present within the following list of countries within 14 days prior to their entry or attempted entry into the United States is suspended, per Presidential Proclamations 9984, 9992, 9993, 9996 and the subsequent proclamation issued May 24, 2020:
- Brazil;
- The United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, excluding overseas territories outside of Europe;
- The Republic of Ireland;
- The 26 countries that comprise the Schengen Area
- The Islamic Republic of Iran;
- The People’s Republic of China, not including the Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macau
The travel restriction does not apply to American citizens, legal permanent residents, most immediate family members of U.S. citizens, and other individuals who are identified in Presidential Proclamation 9996. Those who have been in the Schengen Area who are exempt from these restrictions, including American citizens, to travel through select airports where the U.S. Government has implemented enhanced screening procedures.
Travel to the United States from a country that is not covered by the Presidential Proclamation may be possible, but you are advised to seek legal advice to verify whether the country to which you intend to travel has implemented travel or other restrictions before you make travel arrangements.
The Embassy will not suggest countries to which you may travel, or comment on the travel regulations that apply to a country other than the United States or the UK.
Please also bear in mind the following:
- The Presidential Proclamation suspends travel to the U.S. for any individual who has been physically present in the United Kingdom within 14 days prior to their arrival in the United States.
- The suspension also applies to traveling through a U.S. airport.
- Transiting a country covered by the Presidential Proclamation, even without exiting the airport, counts as physical presence within that country.
At Davies Legal Immigration, we welcome the resumption of some visa processing services through the Embassy in London and the Consulate in Belfast. Whilst many difficulties still ay ahead, this is an indication that services will hopefully soon return to pre-pandemic levels. At Davies Legal Immigration, we represent clients in connection with all types of US immigration. We provide a comprehensive service, including clear and concise advice from the outset, a pragmatic approach and efficient working practices. We understand the importance of our cases to clients and adopt a well-reasoned, diligent approach, in order to maximize your prospects of success. Call now to speak to a licensed US immigration attorney and obtain a free, no obligation quote.
