DONALD TRUMP’S LIMITED IMMIGRATION “FREEZE”:

DONALD TRUMP’S LIMITED IMMIGRATION “FREEZE”: 

On April 20, 2020, Donald Trump tweeted that he will be signing an Executive Order to temporarily suspend immigration into the United States as a result of the 2019 novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

President Trump signed the order on Wednesday, April 22, 2020.

Very limited effect of Order.

·       There will be NO complete halt on all immigration into the United States.

What it covers and what it doesn’t cover?

• The freeze applies to only persons OUTSIDE the U.S.  So all petitions for persons in the U.S. are not covered by this.
• Spousal immigrant visas are EXCLUDED from the order. That means all petitions for wives and husbands of U.S. citizens are not covered by this freeze either—even if outside the USA.
• Children under 21 immigrant visas are EXCLUDED
• The freeze doesn’t affect Legal Permanent Residents; they would still be eligible for citizenship
• The freeze does NOT apply to U visas for victims of crimes
• It doesn't affect asylum/refugees whose cases can go forward.
• It the alien already has a visa issued, they should be able to enter the U.S., as well as their family members.
• • It only lasts 60 days although it can be renewed.

When does it take effect?

It takes effect tonight, April 23, 2020 at 8:59 pm PST.

Facts about Closures Announced Previously.

·       Routine visa services at all U.S. embassies and consular posts around the world have been suspended as of March 20, 2020. U.S. embassies and consulates continue to provide urgent and emergency visa services as resources allow. The Department of State (DOS) intends to continue to process visa applications for farm workers and medical professionals assisting with COVID-19.

·       U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has temporarily suspended in-person services through at least May 3, 2020, including in-person interviews and biometrics processing. USCIS staff will continue to perform duties that do not involve contact with the public and will provide emergency services for limited in-person situations.

·       The U.S. borders with Canada and Mexico are closed for non-essential travel until at least May 20, 2020.

·       With some exceptions, the entry of individuals who were present in China, Iran, the Schengen Area, the U.K., and Ireland, during the 14-day period before their attempted entry into the United States has also been suspended.

·       Despite these limitations, USCIS continues to accept and process applications and petitions, including applications requesting an extension or change of status.

For questions about these and other immigration issues, please contact us for a consultation, call: (707)433-2060 or (415) 777-4445.