Here at Serotte Law, we understand the uncertainty many of us are experiencing as COVID-19 has affected almost every aspect of our daily lives. We also understand the impact this has on those who hold immigration status in the U.S. and elsewhere. Our goal is to keep you adequately informed of the numerous updates that transpire, and how it might affect you and your status. Travel Restrictions and US Consulate Closures as of March 17th, 2020

• The travel ban to the United Kingdom is now in effect, with travel to Schengen area still suspended as of now.
• Immigrants/nonimmigrants who have traveled in the Schengen area in the past 14 days will be denied entry to the US (exceptions include US citizens, permanent residents, and immediate family members of US citizens and permanent residents).
• Department of Homeland Security is implementing a “Notice of Arrivals Restriction”, which requires US passengers who have traveled in the Schengen area to travel through a select few airports where there are additional screening procedures.
• The 13 airports where travelers will be directed to include the following: Boston-Logan International Airport (BOS), Massachusetts, Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD), Illinois, Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Texas, Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW), Michigan, Daniel K. Inouye International Airport (HNL), Hawaii, Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Georgia, John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York, Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), California, Miami International Airport (MIA), Florida, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), New Jersey, San Francisco International Airport (SFO), California, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), Washington, Washington-Dulles International Airport (IAD), Virginia.
• Travelers who proceed through these airports will go through an “enhanced entry screening”. The passenger should be prepared for questions regarding their current health status, medical history, contact information for local health authorities, and in some instances will be asked to have their temperature taken. Travelers will then be obligated to self-quarantine for 14 days and should expect follow ups from local and State public health officials to ensure compliance.
• US Consulate in India canceling immigrant/nonimmigrant visa appointments scheduled on or after March 16th.
• Regular Visa services at consulate in China and Australia are suspended as well.
• Consulate in Mexico suspends Visa services beginning March 18^th, 2020 until further notice, appointments on or after that date will be canceled.
• US Consulate General in St. Petersburg Russia closed.
• US Embassy and Consulates General in Canada are cancelling routine nonimmigrant visa appointments.

We will continue to regularly update you on additional restrictions and closures as they arise. Feel free to contact us if you have any questions about your circumstances. In times of unprecedented crisis, we are here to help.