Immigration Processing and Travel Impacts of COVID-19

Citizenship and Immigration Services announced that effective March 18, 2020 all non-emergency in-person appointments at local offices, including appointments for interviews, biometrics and asylum, are cancelled until at least April 1, 2020. Similarly, immigration courts have cancelled all non-detained hearings until April 10, 2020. Some immigration courts have closed entirely, while others remain open for submission of documents only.

Today, the United States and Canada announced that non-essential travel between our countries will not be permitted. This does not include travel between the countries for trade and cargo, which should remain permissible at this time.

These changes will undoubtedly affect persons who are pending immigration processes locally and nationally, or who planned travel internationally to seek immigration benefits or visas. Updates are being published continuously by all branches of the Department of Homeland Security. The U.S. Department of State has also created a website that has country-specific information regarding COVID19 and its impact on U.S. travel.

The impact to international business between the United States and other countries is being felt on a profound level. If you are considering international travel, there is a very realistic possibility that your return may be impeded. Consular offices are closing on a daily basis and limiting their services to emergencies for United States citizens. Persons needing to obtain visas before returning to the United States may find themselves unable to do so if consular offices close and will not issue visas.

Persons with pending applications domestically must keep abreast of announced changes by DHS, as some deadlines are not being extended and failure to meet deadlines could have serious consequences to benefits sought.

If you have pending immigration processes or plan to travel internationally, it is vital that you consult with an immigration attorney before doing so, as the decision could have serious consequences to you, your family and your business.