U.S. Announces New Travel Restrictions In Response to Omicron Variant
Effective November 29, 2021, the Biden Administration has announced a new travel ban restricting air travel from South Africa, Botswana, Zimbabwe, Namibia, Lesotho, Eswatini, Mozambique and Malawi. In announcing the omicron variant, the World Health Organization has labeled it a “variant of concern.” The restriction suspends entry into the US for all individuals who were physically present in the eight named countries during the 14-day period preceding attempted entry into the United States.
The restrictions do not apply to American citizens, lawful permanent residents, certain immediate family members of U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents, and noncitizens who are members of the U.S. Armed Forces. Noncitizens whose entry would be “in the national interest, as determined by the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Homeland Security, or their designees” are also exempt from this travel ban.
National Interest Exceptions (“NIEs”) that were approved by the U.S. Department of State for travel to the U.S. during prior COVID-related travel restrictions are void, and travelers seeking entry notwithstanding the ban will need to seek a new exception from a US consulate or embassy.