Visa Services Operating Status Update Last Updated: November 19, 2021
Snapshot of COVID-Related Restrictions on Alien Entry
Travelers Seeking Entry with Visas or Other Valid Documents
- Vaccination is required for nonimmigrant air travelers, with some exceptions.
- Vaccination is required for most noncitizens traveling by land or ferry for nonessential purposes; starting in January 2022, this requirement will extend to most aliens traveling for essential purposes as well.
- Exemptions to the new proclamation include arrival from countries with low vaccine availability, participation in certain clinical trials for COVID-19 vaccination, when vaccination would go against medical advice, and humanitarian or emergency reasons. In addition to vaccination status, noncitizen travelers must agree to abide by generally applicable health precautions established by the CDC, potentially including predeparture testing and masking during flight.
Undocumented Migrants Encountered Near the Border (at or between ports of entry)
- Title 42 policy authorizes rapid expulsion without asylum screening (not applicable to unaccompanied children).