April 01, 2021

H-1B, H-2B, J-1 and L-1 Visa Restrictions Lifted

The U.S. Department of State officially confirmed today, April 1, 2021, that Presidential Proclamation 10052 (“PP 10052”) expired on March 31, 2021 and is no longer in effect. PP 10052 temporarily suspended the entry of certain H-1B, H-2B, J-1 (for certain categories within the Exchange Visitor Program), and L-1 nonimmigrants.

This means that applicants in those visa categories will now be eligible to apply for such non-immigrant visas at U.S. Consulates abroad. However, it’s important to note that the travel restrictions relating to foreign nationals who have been physically present in the People’s Republic of China, Islamic Republic of Iran, Schengen Area, United Kingdom, Republic of Ireland, Brazil, and South Africa within the 14-day period before seeking entry into the United States remain in effect.

Any applicant who was previously refused a visa due to the restrictions of PP 10052 can reapply now by submitting a new application including a new fee. U.S. Consulates will continue to schedule appointments and process visa applications according to the existing phased resumption of visa services framework, which is based on local conditions during the COVID-19 pandemic. Therefore, even though PP 10052 has expired, the availability of non-immigrant visa appointments may be limited in certain posts due to restrictions on facilities, staffing resources, and local conditions in each country.

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