Friday, July 24, 2020 - The Trump Administration has suspended entry into the United States of the following non-immigrant visa categories: H-1B, H-2B, J, and L visas, including those dependents following to join. This ban is effective immediately.
This comes in addition to the previous proclamation, in April of this year, impacting most issuance of new immigrant visas, now including EB-2 and EB-3. The EB-5 Immigrant Investor Program was excluded from the list of suspended immigrant visas and continues to be an option to obtain a green card.
These changes leave those seeking US residency, who are not immediate relatives of US Citizens, providing the food supply chain, or medical professionals combating the spread of COVID-19, with few remaining options. Recent bans seek to reduce the admission of workers who pose a risk of displacing and disadvantaging United States workers, prioritizing the hiring of Americans. Conversely, the Trump Administration has protected programs such as EB-5 Immigrant Investors and E-2 Treaty Investors,which are vital to the economy and the national interest. Both programs create jobs and spur investment into the United States Economy, stated priorities of the Administration. The reduction of other visa types available may also benefit remaining active visas, such as EB-5 and E-2. Consulates abroad may have more appointments available for interviews with less resources devoted to H-1B, H-2B, J, and L visas.
While some countries nationals are excluded from the list of treaty countries eligible for participation in the E-2 program, alternate E-2 eligible citizenships such as Grenada and Turkey, remain available to almost all countries, amid the pandemic.
The information provided does not, and is not intended to, constitute legal advice or any type of relationship and is for general informational purposes only. Information on this website may not constitute the most up-to-date information. This information was gathered by a non-attorney. Always seek legal advice from your own counsel before acting or refraining from acting.
If you have any questions, you can contact our office at info@firstpathway.com