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U.S. to Suspend New Immigration for 60 Days – (04/23/2020)

An executive order issuing a Proclamation Suspending Entry of Immigrants was signed by President Trump yesterday evening, to take effect at 11:59pm eastern daylight time today, April 23, 2020 (“effective date”). As of the effective date, aliens outside the United States who do not have an immigrant visa or official travel document other than a visa that is valid on that effective date will be barred entry as immigrants into the U.S. for a period of 60 days. This group of people waiting to immigrate to the U.S. who would be affected by the ban could include artists seeking permanent residency to perform with or as part of U.S. arts organizations. Note that the executive order does not yet limit the nonimmigrant O and P visas in use by guest artists.

This suspension and limitation on entry does not apply to lawful permanent residents of the U.S., nor does it apply to any alien who is the spouse or child under age 21 of a U.S. citizen. There are also exceptions for those working in healthcare or research relating to combatting COVID-19, law enforcement, members of the U.S. Armed Forces, and aliens seeking entry via the EB-5 immigrant investor program or the Special Immigrant Visa in the SI or SQ classification. Consular officers will determine whether an immigrant meets one of these exceptions. The proclamation is set to expire in 60 days, but the President has indicated he would review the executive order to determine if it should be renewed.

Additionally, the proclamation states that within 30 days of the effective date, the Secretaries of Labor and Homeland Security shall review nonimmigrant programs and recommend, in consultation with the Secretary of State, “other measures appropriate to stimulate the United States economy and ensure the prioritization, hiring, and employment of United States workers.”

This news page will be updated as agencies publicize their implementation plans and more details become available.

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