Below are resources for those considering travel during the holidays. Due to CDC guidelines, state and local government stay-at-home orders, and unpredictable immigration policies/travel bans, non-essential domestic and international travel is discouraged at this time. Should international travel needs arise, please contact your LAC attorney to schedule a consultation to discuss the options and potential risks.
Please refer to the below resources for COVID-related restrictions on international travel and visa issuance.
- Centers for Disease Control Travel Information
- Travel ban restricting entry to the US for certain travelers who have been present in the Schengen Region for the 14 days before admission. Exemptions may be granted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection or a U.S. Consular Post on a case-by-case basis.
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection Temporary Restriction of Travelers Crossing US-Canada and Mexico Land Borders for Non-Essential Purposes. Note that entry to the U.S. through air travel does not have the same restrictions.
- Presidential Proclamation 10052 restricting visa issuance in certain visa categories.
- Presidential Proclamation 10052 Exemptions
Travel Resources:
- Visa Revalidation Rule permitting return to the U.S. after travel to Canada or Mexico with an expired visa or a visa in a different classification. We recommend those traveling under the visa revalidation provision print out and carry the CBP guidance on this provision to assist with questions at the border.
- For all travelers — I-94 Printout: Please remember to print and review the I-94 admission document for yourself and each member of your family after each entry to the U.S.
- Wait time at U.S./Canada and U.S./Mexico Border
Non-COVID-related Alerts/Potential Delays
- Individuals with DUI-Related Arrests or Convictions
The U.S. Department of State will revoke the visa stamp of visa-holders with a DUI arrest that occurred within the past five years, unless that arrest has already been vetted as part of a prior visa application.
While the revocation of a visa does not affect the underlying status of a nonimmigrant while inside the U.S., the visa stamp would no longer be valid for international travel. Therefore, after departure from the U.S. that individual must secure a new visa from a U.S. Consulate abroad prior to returning to the U.S.
Applicants for a visa who have had one alcohol related arrest in the last five years, or two or more in the last 10 years, will be referred to a panel physician for a medical examination prior to visa issuance to rule out a medical ineligibility.
Note that under Canadian law, an individual (of any nationality other than Canadian) may not enter Canada if they have a DUI. A waiver would be required.
Any DUI-related incident should be brought to the attention of your LAC attorney. Please be sure to contact your LAC attorney to schedule a consultation for an assessment of the potential impacts on the ability to travel and obtain a visa.
- Individuals with an arrest or conviction for any offense
An arrest or conviction for any offense may result in a visa denial or denial of admission to the U.S. Please be sure to contact your LAC attorney to schedule a consultation to discuss any such incident prior to departure from the United States. Under attorney-client privilege, this matter will be kept confidential.
We wish everyone a safe and healthy Holiday season.