Upcoming Travel Restrictions
We are aware of growing concerns regarding potential travel restrictions on non-U.S. citizens in the United States and abroad. Below is the most up-to-date information available.
Current Status
At this time, no formal travel restrictions have been announced. However, it is our understanding that the U.S. government is reviewing security and vetting protocols for certain countries. While news reports suggest that additional scrutiny or a ban may be applied to nationals from some countries, the specifics of any potential restrictions — such as which visa categories or the timing of any potential actions — have not yet been confirmed. It is also not clear whether people with existing nonimmigrant status (e.g., F-1, J-1, O-1, TN and H-1B) would be exempt from any travel restrictions and whether lawful permanent residents will be affected by this upcoming action.
Countries Affected and Timing
At this stage, it is very important to keep in mind that we do not have definitive information on which countries would be affected. The U.S. government is still in the process of reviewing the vetting practices associated with various nations and a decision may be forthcoming soon. At this time, it is advisable that foreign travel be delayed until further official notification is announced. We will update this website once official action is taken.
Executive Actions:
Jan. 20: Protecting the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats” Executive Order
- This order requires “enhanced vetting” and screening of individuals both seeking admission to and already in the U.S. The order further requires the evaluation of all visa programs to “ensure that they are not used by foreign nation-states or other hostile actors to harm the security, economic, political, cultural, or other national interests of the United States.”
- As of today, no travel restrictions (bans) are in effect. While the order requires the Secretaries of State and Homeland Security, with the Attorney General and Director of National Intelligence, to produce a report identifying countries with insufficient vetting and security processes to warrant suspending admission of these nationals to the U.S., there are no public details on what countries will be affected by the report.
Jan. 20: “America First Policy Directive to the Secretary of State” Executive Order
- This order directs the Department of State to align all policies and programs with an “America First” approach, which could have implications for State Department-funded international exchange and study abroad programs.
Current guidance on visas and maintaining lawful status:
Study Abroad and International Exchange:
- In early March, international education associations and media outlets reported a freeze on the U.S. Department of State’s grant funding for study abroad and international exchange programs.
- As of March 13, some funding has reportedly been dispersed to organizations administering State Department study abroad and exchange programs.
- The university is monitoring the situation. Students can contact Education Abroad and Exchanges with questions.