Initially, there were rumors stating Trump will sign Executive Order to Ban H1B, J1, L1, H4 entry to US. Eventually, on June 22, 2020, Trump officially signed the Executive Order(EO) that bans the entry of H1B, H4, L1, L2, J1 and others until end of 2020, with very few exceptions. Later it was extended until March 31, 2021. Also, in early October, 2020, a court gave an order indicating that the travel ban is blocked for the plaintiffs, who were part of the Lawsuit.
In this article, we cover all the latest news updates related to the Trump Travel Ban for H1B, L1 and other visa holders. We have structured the article into sections for easy review.
Trump Extends Travel Ban for H1B, L1, Others until March 31, 2021
January 1st, 2021 : Below is the summary of the update on the Extension of Travel Ban by Trump Administration.
- Many news outlets reported that travel ban was extended yesterday, but WhiteHouse Official Press release was NOT available yesterday due to some issues and it is published today on their website.
- As per the official WhiteHouse.gov press release, the H1B, L1 Travel Ban continues to be in effect until March 31st, 2021. It extends the previous Travel Ban related Proclamations / Executive Orders issued in April and June 2020.
- All the previous clauses remain in effect as per the travel ban annoucement and there are no changes. They are just modifying a section that is related to date as per the annoucement. See below screenshot on the exact caluse that extends the date.
- Also, the previous guidance from US Dept of State on the Court Order also remains in effect and there would exceptions for anyone that were part of the lawsuit. Read below section on the same.
- Also, the Proclamation has a clause that tells that DHS and Dept of Labor need to review within 15 days and recommend any changes as needed. We need to wait and see, what really comes out.
- Check Official WhiteHouse.gov press release on the same.
You can watch the below YouTube Video that covers the above udpate.
US Dept of State Guidance on Court Order Blocking Trump EO
October 14th, 2020 : After US Dept of State guidance, US Embassy in India gave additional guidance telling that they are aware of the Court Order, but they cannot accommodate all the request due to COVID-19 situation and they request anyone with urgent need to submit Emergency US Visa Appointment Request . They say they may not approve EA for everyone. This has nothing to do with court order, but their capacity with the COVID situation. See below update on their website.
October 9, 2020 : Today US Dept of State gave additional guidance clarifying their generic guidance that they issued on Oct 2nd. Under the new clarification from today, you are exempt from the Proclamation or EO of H1B, L1, other visas travel ban, only if you are the plaintiff ( parties who put up the lawsuit) in the court case that was lost by Dept of State on Trump Travel Ban for H1B, L1, Others.
The named plaintiffs are :
- The National Association of Manufacturers
- The US Chamber of Commerce
- The National Retail Federation
- TechNet
- Intrax, Inc.
If your company is a member of the above organizations, then you can apply for H1B, L1 or J1 visa stamping at Consulate and travel to US.
As per the guidance, your company need to get a letter from one of these organization confirming the membership. You would need to submit the letter for emergency appointment and also a copy of the same at the US visa interview to US Consulate officer. Also, if the dependents like H4 and L2 would also be able to leverage this, if the principal spouse’s company is a member of one of these plaintiff organization.
If your company is not a member, the attorney’s who won the lawsuit are advising the companies to join one of these organizations and it costs about $250. So, if you are stuck, worth asking your employer to check on this and become a member of these plaintiff organizations.
Below is the actual screenshot of the same. You can check the Official State Dept Guidance
October 2, 2020 : As many of you know recently Judge Blocked Trump’s H1B Entry Ban. The tricky part with the court order is that, it applied to only plaintiffs ( parties who put up the lawsuit) in the court case. We all were waiting for guidance from US Department of State.
Today, US Department of State gave guidance on the same indicating that they are not going to apply Trump Travel Ban Proclamation ( Executive Order) for scheduling Emergency Appointments at Consulates. They say that each of the consulates and embassies in the respective countries will give further guidance. We need to further wait for specific details on how they will handle.
One thing to note is that, US Dept of State Guidance does not explicitly tell in the news alert that they will only give H1B, L1 visa emergency appointments to only parties, who were part of the Lawsuit. So, we can assume that it will be applicable to everyone and there is no Restriction for Visa Stamping or Travel ban anymore for all H1B, L1 and other visa holders. One of the reason they may have made it general for everyone is that the orgainzations that were part of the lawsuit have many thousands of companies as members and it will be hard for DHS/ State Dept verify and give only to such parties.
Below is the exact guidance from them. You can read official alert at : US Dept of State News
Update : US State Dept Clarifies – H4, L2 Visa Stampings
August 12th, 2020 : Today USCIS announced many more changes and exceptions for H1B, L1 and other Visa holders. They have given exceptions for employees already working in US on Extensions, and given criteria to qualify for other. We have created a detail article on this. Check out. New Exceptions to get US Visa, Entry H1B, L1 – Aug 2020
Jul 17th, 2020 : Today US State Department updated their previous press release and gave more clarifications. Below are the updates for H1B, L1, H4, L2 visas.
- There were confusions in the past that said, if H1B or L1 holder was in US and their H1B or L1 visa has expired, then H4 or L2 may or may not go for stamping. Also, another confusion was, if the H1B or L1 holder had visa and in home country, can their spouse may or may not visa stamping. Today’s update clarifies both.
- As per new clarification, if you are H4 or L2 spouse, you can go for Visa stamping in two situations.
- As long as your spouse is in US (even with expired US, but with valid status like valid I-797, I-94)
- If they have valid H1B Visa in their passport ( they do not have to be in US). See below screenshot. from press release.
- They also clarified saying that H1B holders and L1 holders, who work on public health related areas or research on the same, they can get stamping and travel to US. Also, if H1B holder work for Govt agency’s IT support/services, they can get exceptions for stamping too. See below screenshot.
- See below screenshot from State Depart website. Check Official Press Release – State.Gov
July 16th, 2020 : US State Department issued a clarification today on the H4, L2 and J2 visas and others. Below are the details
- Dept of State will continue to issue Visas for H4, L2 and J2 visa holders, if they are not part of the Executive Order / Proclamation or if the principal Applicant is in the US. Which means, if H1B or L1 visa holder in US and their spouse is outside of US, then they will be issued visas. This clarification comes just couple of days after the Lawsuit was filed Challenging H1B, H4 entry Ban
- Also exceptions for H, J visa holder who support US interests like COVID response, or traveling as per US Govt.
- Lastly, if the applicants are subject to aging out of their current immigrant visa before their passport expires or within 2 weeks after it expires.
You may watch below YouTube Video that covers the same
Update : Clarification on Non-immigrant Visa Clause
June 29th, 2020 : Today, WhiteHouse gave an amendment to their Proclamation that Trump Signed to ban entry of H1B, H4 and others, clarifying that it applies only to visa holders such as H1B, H4, H2B, L and certain J visas that are part of the proclamation. Below is what it used to look before and after.
There have been confusions with some saying it is banned for F2, K1 and other visa and mis-information. In light of all confusions, to make it clear, they issued an amendment clarifying the same. It does not change any of the entry ban list of Visa types or categories that were part of the original proclamation. Still all the restrictions on Travel entry and Stampings apply. Read US Entry Ban, Visa Stamping – Official Guidance by USCIS, Consulates, State Dept.
You may watch below video as well on the update
Why Trump Executive Order to ban Entry of H1B, L1, other visas ?
The executive order states that US unemployment is at one of the highest levels of 13.3% and with the slow economic recovery, allowing entry of foreign workers and their spouses will create additional competition to US citizens to find a job.
Trump EO – Entry Ban for H1B, H4, L1, L2, J1, others.
As we discussed in our Fact Check on Executive Order Power of President, most of the things in the Executive order apply to people currently outside of United States and without a valid Visa. The non-immigrant visa holders impacted are H1B, H4, H2B, L1, L2, J1 and also Immigrant Visa holders entering US. Let’s look each of these categories in detail.
EO Impact for H1B Visa Holders
The Executive Order (EO) will impact all H1B Visa holders outside of US and who do not have valid H1B Visa stamping in their passport ( Sample US Visa Stamp ). It does not matter, if you are New H1B seeker, who filed in H1B 2021 Season or an someone who already had H1B and worked in US. If you do not have valid visa on your passport as of today June 22, 2020, you will not able to enter US until Dec 31, 2020.
It will NOT impact any H1B holder within US. They can continue to file H1B Transfers, Extensions or Amendments. It does not impact anyone picked in H1B registration lottery this year and filing H1B petition with USCIS for FY 2021 season, it is just that they cannot enter US until this travel ban is lifted. If you leave US and do not have valid US visa, then you cannot re-enter. This even applies to anyone in US trying to extend I-94 by exiting the country.
EO Impact for H4 Visa Holders.
Updated July 16th, 2020 : Based on clarification from US state Department
As per the executive order text, it says “any alien accompanying or following to join such alien”. So, it says H4 and Dependents as blanket. Initially, there were confusions created as the State Dept Twitter account and consulates started telling they cannot stamp any H4 Visa holder. It was clarified on July 16th press release.
The signed executive order only applies to certain H4 Visa holders, who are outside of US and do not have a valid H4 Visa stamp in their passport and if their spouse is not in the US. As per the new guidance on July 16th, H4 Visa holder, who have their spouse in the US on H1B can apply for H4 visa stamping at consulate and get stamping done. They can return to US using the stamping.
Also, it will NOT impact any H4 holder currently in the US with their spouse. It does not impact them from applying H4 EAD and working in the US, if they are eligible. H4 holders are free to apply for extensions or Change of status as needed, including EADs( if eligible).
You can join Telegram Group – H1B, H4, L1, Travel Ban Help to discuss and help each other as community.
EO Impact for L1A, L1B, L2 Visa Holders
The Trump executive order signed today impacts all L1A, L1B and certain L2 dependents (spouse and children), who are outside of US and do not have a valid US visa stamp in their passport. If you do not have the valid L1 or L2 visa stamp in your passport, you cannot enter US until Dec 31st, 2020.
Update July 16, 2020 : US state department clarified on July 16th, 2020 saying that L2 visa holders without a stamp in passport and if primary L1 visa holder in US, then they can apply for L2 stamping. Previously, it was told by them on Twitter that all L2s cannot get stamping, but this was clarified in press release.
It will not have any impact on the L1A, L1B or L2 visa holders, who are already in the US. They are free to file Extensions or Change of status as needed. If you are on L2 and have EAD, you can continue to work and extend your EAD and L2 as well.
EO Impact for H2B and Dependent H4 Holders
The executive order applies to H2B visa holders and their Dependent spouses and children on H4 visa, who are outside of US and do NOT have valid visa stamp to enter US. This will last until Dec 31, 2020. It will not apply to anyone on H2B, H4 visa status and already in US. They are free to work, continue to extend as eligible or file COS as applicable.
EO Impact for J1, J2 Visa Holders
The executive order bans entry of J1 visa holders who outside of US and do not have valid J1 visa stamp as of today and planning to participate as an intern, trainee, teacher, camp counselor, Au Pair or Summer work travel program. It also includes their accompanying spouses and children of J1 visa holders. Also, it was clarified on July 16th by State Department that J2 visa holders are eligible to get stamping and fly to US, if their principal applicant on J1 is in US.
You may watch the below YouTube Video, it has the summary of entire article.
EO for new Immigrants / new GC holders
The Executive order extends the previous 60 days Executive order banning entry of Immigrant Visa (new GC) holders and it will be extended until end of the year, which is December 31st, 2020. All the exceptions for health care workers and others that are outlined in that previous order will continue to apply.
EO Ban Impact for F1 Visa, OPT, STEM OPT Holders
The executive order signed today does not have any impact on the F1 Student Visa holders. If you are an F1 student trying to enter US for Fall 2020, you are fine to enter US. If you are an OPT or STEM OPT holder in US, you can continue to work on OPT and STEM OPT, there is no impact. You can apply for OPT, CPT and STEM OPT as normal and this executive order does not have any impact on such visa holders. Also, if you are planning to apply for F1 visa to enter US for Fall 2020, you are free to apply as well, this does not impact you.
EO Ban Impact on TN, B1/B2, E3, O1, other Visas
The EO singed today does not have any impact on other visas like TN, B1/B2, E2, O1 or other visa types. You are free to apply for such visas or enter US on such visas. There are no restrictions as well to apply for petitions related to these visas with USCIS.
EO impact on Adjustment of Status, I-140, PERM
The executive order does not have any impact on the filing of any form or petition with USCIS like I-140 or Adjustment of Status using I-485. Also, you can go through PERM process as well, just that there will be more scrutiny with higher unemployment rate.
Those are the key parts of the executive order, see summary table below.
Summary of the Trump Executive order entry Ban in Table
Below table is updated as of October 14, 2020
| Visa Type | Location | US Visa Stamp, Status | Impact – Dec 31, 2020 |
| H1B Visa | Outside US | No H1B Stamp | Cannot enter US Exception – part of Lawsuit tied to court order |
| H1B Visa | Outside US | Has Valid H1B Stamp | No impact |
| H1B Visa | Inside US | Valid I-797, I-94 | No impact |
| H4 Visa | Outside US ( H1B spouse outside US) | No H4 Stamp | Cannot enter US Exception – part of Lawsuit tied to court order |
| H4 Visa (Jul 16 update) | Outside US (H1B holder in US) | No H4 Stamp | Can get H4 Stamping, enter US |
| H4 Visa | Outside US | Has Valid H4 Stamp | No impact |
| H4 Visa | Inside US | Valid I-797, I-94 | No impact |
| H4 EAD | Inside US | Valid EAD | No impact |
| L1, L2 Visa | Outside US | No L1, L2 Stamp | Cannot enter US Exception – part of Lawsuit tied to court order |
| L1, L2 Visa | Outside US | Has Valid L1, L2 Stamp | No impact |
| L1, L2 Visa | Inside US | Valid I-797, I-94 | No impact |
| L2 EAD | Inside US | Valid EAD | No impact |
| H2B Visa | Outside US | No H2B Stamp | Cannot enter US Exception – part of Lawsuit tied to court order |
| H2B Visa | Outside US | Has Valid H2B Stamp | No impact |
| H2B Visa | Inside US | Valid approval, I-94 | No impact |
| F1, F2 Visa | Anywhere | Does not matter | No impact |
| OPT, STEM OPT | Anywhere | Does not matter | No impact |
| J1 Visa | Outside US | No J1 Stamp | Cannot enter US Exception – part of Lawsuit tied to court order |
| J1 Visa | Outside US | Valid J1 Stamp | No impact |
| J1 Visa | Inside US | Valid status documents | No impact |
| B1, B2 | Anywhere | Does not matter | No impact |
| TN,O1, E3 | Anywhere | Does not matter | No Impact |
| Filing USCIS Forms, DOL Process | Impact |
| I-140, I-485 (AOS) | No Impact |
| I-129 (H1B or L1 Transfers, COS, Extensions ) | No Impact |
| I-765 (EAD Applications) | No impact |
| All other forms with USCIS, Biometrics, Interviews | No impact |
Exceptions for Travel Entry Ban for Non-immigrants
Below categories of Individuals are exempted from the Travel ban
- Green Card Holders ( Lawful Permanent Residents )
- Spouse or child of US citizens
- Any foreigner seeking to enter US for temporary labor or services for US food supply chain.
- Anyone whose entry is of national interest as determined by Consulate or State Dept.
- It does not apply to asylum seekers or refugees and others who fall under similar circumstances.
In addition to the above executive order, president Trump also announced the below for further action by USCIS, Dept of Labor. Some of these have been there on their agenda, now they will push hard for these changes due to the economy.
Merit Based US Immigration System – H1B Program Changes
Update from Jul 11, 2020 : Trump indicated in press releases that he plans to sing a Merit Based Immigration Bill / Executive Order
In the past Trump announced high level info on Point Based US Immigration System that is Merit driven, but it never went anywhere. Now, today they announced that they will plan to move to a Merit-Based Immigration System. It will prioritize highest skilled workers and protect American jobs with below changes to H1B system
- Reform H1B Visa program
- Prioritize H1B workers with Highest wage to make sure highest skilled applicants are admitted
- Fix the loopholes in the immigration and work visa programs to replace American workers
The changes to the program are not part of the Executive Order, it will be carried out by the respective agency such as USCIS and Department of Labor for the respective Changes. We need to wait and see, how it will impact. These are already part of Trump’s Unified Agenda from Fall 2019.
Latest News Updates on Trump Travel Ban for H1B, H4
- Jul 15th, 2020 : Trump announces his plans for merit based immigration bill / executive order twice. Check out all details at Trump Merit based Immigration Plans 2020
- Jul 14th, 2020 : A lawsuit was filed against Trump Administration challenging the abuse of power by Trump to ban H1B and H4 Visa holders. Check full details at : 174 Indian Nationals file Lawsuit for H1B Entry Ban
Common FAQs
It was applicable for Dropbox in the beginning. Later in the year, they relaxed some rules and now allow H1B, H4 and other visa renewals and extended the dropbox to 24 months for eligibility.
We do know at this point. New Biden Administration will take office in late January, it may or may not extend. Based the election campaing, he said that he would end it.
There were couple of regulations that were done by Trump administration published as interim final rule. Later, they were taken to court and cancelled by Court.
It will be effective from 12:01 EST, June 24th, 2020. The previous executive order for immigrants visas will continue to be in effect as before.
Yes, there is nothing that is stopping you from applying for H4 EAD as per the Executive Order. We have H4 EAD lawsuit going on at the moment and we are waiting for court and OMB.
Yes, you can use your previous employer stamping to enter, as long as it is valid on the day of your entry. Check do I need new H1B stamp after transfer ?
It is a huge blow to many stuck in their home countries with pending stamping and many with dreams to work in US from Oct 2020.
What do you think of the Executive Order ? Share your thoughts in comments ?
Reference : Official WhiteHouse EO – Ban H1B, L, J, Entry and H1B Immigration Changes
Comments ( 295 )
Hi,
Do you have any information on how the company can become a member of the plaintiff ?
Is there any website where you register or some sort of procedure?
John,
You can go to their website and find details. I heard that you pay some fee and can become member. Ask your employer to check this option.
Since consulates are closed in India for regular appointment, what are your thoughts on getting my visa appointment in Hong Kong? This is my first time stamping. I see from ustraveldocs that it has some availabilities.
Aman,
This is something other have tried in Consualtes like Mexico and got success. So, you can try, if eligible and no issues there.
Hi Kumar,
my h1b maxed out and back to india in oct 2019 ,140 and h1b extension approved now , my employer was part of lawsuit against travel ban and i have the letter for the same, am working now for the same employer same role but in India,
a)can i apply for visa ?
b) if so in ds160 should i provide employer’s india address under “present employer” section or the one mentioned in petition
c),will i need any other supporting docs?
d)my EVL has my employer’s India office address will that be a problem?
pls let me know.
sakthi,
a. you can. but getting the emergency appointment is the hard part.
b. yes, refer to the one where you work now.
c. you will need all the standard documents from your company.
d. not sure what is EVL..
thanks Kumar, i am eligible for dropbox and i managed to secure a dropbox appt, by EVL i was referring to the employment verification letter, since it would contain my employer’s India subsidiary address, would i require any additional docs such as a transfer letter
sakthi,
Carry any documentation that you can think. Many are not generally supporting documentation only. It would definitely help to have the transfer letter.
Hi Kumar – I am eligible for Dropbox. My company is not part of any plaintiff exemptions from the ban. I was in USA till November 20 with valid i797 and i94. My visa stamping expired on feb 2019. I switched jobs on June 8. Am I exempt from the ban as I had valid status and was in the USA at the time?
Thanks
Bhargavi
Bhargavi,
If you meet all requirements for dropbox, you maybe eligible. Check with your attorney once.
Thanks Kumar. My attorney told me even if I am eligible for Dropbox, I am under the ban as my company is not part of the plaintiff. I was in the USA on jun 22 , but not sure why my attorney never considered me eligible from this point of view . That’s why I’ve been confused . Any thoughts on this?
Bhargavi,
That was the case in the past. Now, at least in India, there is no restriction as such. If you are qualified for dropbox, you can. Read the US Consulates Updates – India In that article, under timeline look for update on Aug 28, 2020. This has screenshot of the guidance with the proclamation. Now, if you see the same on consulate, they do not have it anymore.
Hello Bhargavi,
do you have any update.
i am in the same boat
Thanks
Hi Kumar,
I have a question I got my petition approved for H1B 2021, and now when the ban is about of expire i wanna get the stamping done but the thing is I am from Pakistan and currently i am in Saudi Arabia doing a job. Should i get the stamping from here or from my home country. The problem i have is that if i go to Pakistan and my visa goes to admin processing i will be stuck there and might lose my job here and might not be able to goi to US job for GOD knows how long. So is it OK to apply in other country or will this increase the chance of refusal.
Waqas,
If they allow Third country national(TCN) stamping, then you can attend in Saudi itself. Check with the consulate in Saudi
Hello,
I am assuming TRUMP Executive order on Travel Ban is getting expired on Dec 31, can we plan for L1A Visa stamping from Jan 1st 2021, based on availability of slots ?
FYI, I am in Europe and looking for getting stamped here.
Abhi,
We need to wait for one more day, they usually do not finalize this until the last date.
My wife has a valid H4 Stamp but forgot to take her i797 with her. I’m on H1 in the US, She’s traveling to Chile with an Indian passport. Would there be any issues for her while coming back without the original i797? I’ve sent her a scanned copy so she will have a printed duplicate with her.
Rohit,
She does not need her I-797 for entry. She would only need your copy of I-797 and valid H4 visa to enter. She should be fine.
Hi, I am planning to travel to India and stay for 3 months. I am currently in USA and have a valid H1 stamp till December 2021. Is it safe to travel to India now? As I have a valid visa, will there be any issue for me on return at POE? Also, Since my visa was stamped before proclamation came into light, my visa stamp doesn’t have annotation like “Excepted from or not subject to PP 10052”. So I want to see will that raise any questions at POE.
Raj,
Safe is relative and depends on your situation and perspective. If you have documents and everything, you should be fine.
You do not need to have any of that, all you need is a valid visa, to re-enter.
Is the travel ban still in affect for h1-b? I was on h4 in usa , h1 lottery got picked this year , need to get h1 stamped in india and travel back to usa. Does the travel ban apply in my case?
Neha,
Yes. Very likely it applies as you were not on H1B visa in US. You can check with consulate to be sure.
Hi Kumar,
I need to go India asap for family emergency. Is travel ban still applicable for the US born kid?
Appreciate your time and help.
Koyel,
It is more about the OCI card thing to enter India. Check with Indian embassy.
I am on F1 visa, working on OPT and EAD is valid upto May 2021 .
Can I come to India during this December 2021 for attending my brother’s marriage and will return back before 31 Dec 2020 ? Is Travel ban can allow me to entry to USA ?
Raghava,
If you have a valid visa in passport, it does not apply to you. But again, travel back on OPT has its own risks…
Hi – I am currently in US and planning to go back to India in early December with return on Jan 4th. My H1B stamp has expired and I am looking to get it renewed through Dropbox in December and enter USA around Jan 5. Does the travel ban for executive order apply to me?
Siddhant,
Technically, you should not be. But, getting a slot is very hard, make sure you fill out everything have the appointment booked before you travel…You could be stuck for a long time, if you do not get slot or if they need additional verification…it can be risky…it is your discretion.
Hi Kumar,
I currently have an H1B stamp (previous employer) that’s valid till January 2021. I switched jobs in March 2020, and my new H1B term with current employer runs though January 2022. Do you know if I can go to Mexico to get my re-stamping done? I previously got my current stamp done in Guadalajara (the one from my previous employer that expires in January 2021), so just wondering if I can do the same again this time around instead of flying all the way back to India just for the stamping.
Thanks,
Danielle
Hello,
Thanks so much for the information in this post. Hoping you can help me with the below question?
I have stamped visa of employer(A) in my passport valid till sep 2021.I changed my employer(A) to (B) on February and my I797 and I94 for (B) was approved in march 2020. Because of project issues i had to move to employer(C), my I797 and I94 for (C) was approved in sep 2020. I was in US the whole year and still is.
Can I apply for dropbox in India and travel there next month and get my visa stamped for employer(C) and travel back to US?
Thanks in advance.
If you were in US on June 22, 2020, you will not be subject to PP10052 visa ban. As long as you meet eligibility criteria for dropbox, you will not have any issues with getting a dropbox appointment and new visa. Dropbox criteria is below, and is indepedent of employer or change in employer/sponsorer. Be sure to get the dropbox appointment first, before you book travel as appointments are limited and scarce. All international travelers inbound to India are subject to 7-day mandatory institutional quarantine at government facilities or hotels at traveler’s expense. Please plan accordingly. I would definitely recommend avoiding any non-essential, non-emergency travel.
Eligibility for dropbox (Interview waiver):
http://cdn.ustraveldocs.com/in/in-niv-visarenew.asp
https://www.nafsa.org/regulatory-information/dos-temporary-expansion-interview-waiver-eligibility
Hi Kumar,
I currently have an H1B stamp (previous employer) that’s valid till January 2021. I switched jobs in March 2020, and my new H1B term with current employer runs though January 2022. Do you know if I can go to Mexico to get my re-stamping done? I previously got my current stamp done in Guadalajara (the one from my previous employer that expires in January 2021), so just wondering if I can do the same again this time around instead of flying all the way back to India just for the stamping.
Thanks,
Danielle
I received my Petition last year valid for3 years ( till Sept 2022).
Interview Date: January End Days, 2020
Embassy: Islamabad, Pakistan
Application Status: Administrative Processing (AP) – No RFE asked till today
Case Last Update Date: Same as Interview Date
Can you please confirm if the applications like mine are still valid?
What happens after December 31, 2020? Will my case be in the AP queue to be worked upon or any else?
Hi Kumar,
Thanks for the information in this post.
I changed my employer(A) to (B) in April 2020 and my I797 and I94 was approved in May 2020(before EO). My employer A visa has expired in September 2020.
Can I go to India or Canada and get new h1b stamped?
Am I eligible for dropbox?
Thanks in advance.
Prasadkumar,
if you were in US on the day of proclamation, you should be eligible as it is same visa type. Before you make your travel plans, you try out online and book dropbox. If the system allows, then good. If not, you can stay back. Also, write to consulate, they will confirm too.
Thank You for the quick response.
I thought all h1b visa stamping were blocked till 31 dec. Was this rule updated on 12 Aug proclamation?
Hi my situation I have a passport valid till November 2021 and so is my i94, but my H1b visa is valid till 2022 November, and now I’m in India and I also wanted to request for renewal of passport and also get my i94 extended till my visa is valid which is till 2022
Sidharta,
I-94 is given when you enter US, not now. So, just get passport renewed and when you enter US with new passport you will get I-94 until 2022, if you have the approval notice until then.
Hi,
My current H1b expired on Aug 31, 2020. H1b extension was approved on May 22, 2020 before the EO.
Will I able to travel to India before 31st Dec 2020 and get visa stamped?
Ismail,
Yes, you can.
Hello,
Does it mean any petition approved before June 24 2020 (EO) can travel to India and get Visa stamped even before 31st Dec 2020?
Thanks
Sumit,
If you were in US on the day of proclamation, you are technically exempted. You can write to the consulates to be clear.
My h1b petition ( counselor) filed in 2019 has been approved after almost 1.5 year. The approval is valid til 9/5/22. Looking at the present corona situation and executive order I can not go for the stamping till 31 dec 2020 and may be beyond that of it is extended further. My opt is valid till 11 Dec 2020. So what are my options apart from applying for COS amendment ?. Can I file for the cos extension before getting the h1b stamped if I find a new job. Or do I need a stamp before I apply for extension or transfer.
swap,
You can apply for COS with the same company before your OPT expires. Do it in premium to get faster results.
Hi Kumar,
My employer is not ready to amend it as the project is getting over in next month. They are looking for a new project but can I just look for a new employer and transfer the H1b if it is the first H1b and not stamped. Thanks in advance.
Sir,
I am working in USA with valid J1 visa and documents. I recently married in Feb and wife wife is stuck in India, Can she get ta fresh J2 visa as per latest amendments on visa ban ?
Thank you.
Vinay
Vinay,
J1 has few categories, you need to check if your category falls under exceptions.
My husband has a valid L1 visa ( 15- Jan -2021) and is in US. Currently his company is applying for premium extension. Once he gets his approval. Can i apply for an L2 visa before 31- Dec-2020. I’m currently based in India
Ashwini,
Yes, you can. You do not fall under the travel ban.
Thanks kumar .Just to reconfirm i dont have an existing L2 visa it would be a new visa .Would i still be elgible to apply before dec 31st
Ashwini,
Yes.
Hi,
I am an Irish citizen with a H1b visa and I am working for a US company in New York (in the IT field) . On March 17th I fled the city back to Ireland. I am still workign for the US company from Ireland.
Am I allowed to fly back in ? I was told that its only allowable for certain sectors
E,
No, you can fly back, as long as you have valid H1B visa stamp on your passport. There is no restriction based on sector now.
Yes there is …. if your in Ireland you cannot fly to the US you will need to travel to a country where there are no restrictions IE …. Mexico and stay there for 15 days then fly to the US …
They will not allow you to travel … don’t waste your money …
See the travel ban restrictions …
Hi,
I am currently in the United States on a H1B visa working for a company and want to go back to my home country to visit my family but I’m scared they won’t let me come back into the US again. I would be out of the country for 1,5 week and I would have a job to get back to. I already have the visa in my passport and it’s valid for another year.
Ellen,
As long as you have valid H1B Visa on your passport and have all the documents and everything in place, you are fine to exit and re-enter. There is no reason to worry, unless there is something wrong with the company you work for…
Hi,
I have H4 valid stamp, my husband is H1B, and we are in USA right now. my daughter is US citizen. Can I travel to my home country for a family emergency and re-entry USA after that?
Hi Kumar,
I am currently in USA and have valid H1B Visa stamped in my passport (Validity until 2022). I have plans to travel to india in Oct/Nov for my marriage.
1) After the marriage can my spouse apply for H4 visa immediately ? (Provided US Consulates open at least by Oct/Nov time-frame).
2) Since i have valid H1b visa stamped does it matter where i am physically present (USA/India) while my spouse applies for her H4 Visa during Oct/Nov?
HariKrishna,
1. Yes.
2. No, it does not matter. They clarified it recently that if you have stamp, your spouse can get stamping done.
Thank you!. Helpful as always.
Hello Kumar and All,
I will really appreciate if you guys can share your experiences on below questions-
1- Did anybody travel from Canada to US on expired h1b visa using Auto visa revalidation after travel ban?
2- Did anybody try h1b stamping in Canada after travel ban?
Thanks in advance.
I am not Canadian citizen but have a Canadian PR.
Pranita,
1. I have not seen anyone update in the forum or groups.
2. No, it seems the essential travel is not open, so no option to go or schedule.
Do update from your side, if any new updates for community benefit.
Hello Kumar/Everyone,
I got my first H1B visa stamped in Feb, 2020. But I couldn’t travel due to covid restrictions. Visa is valid upto Sept, 2022.
Can I enter US first time on H1B status before Dec, 2020?
Thanks in advance.
JB,
Yes, you can, if you have valid visa.
Thank you!!
I have I-797 which is valid till 31-Dec-2020, and was not able to stamp visa due to ongoing pandemic situation. After us entry ban what will the impact. Can I apply for extention of I-797 validity or need to go through lottery again in next year when this ban is revoked.
Rohit,
You can apply for extension. No need to go through it again, if you get it stamped or extended.
Thanks Kumar,
Don’t I need to be in US before apply for extention.
Or can I apply for extention from india ?
Rohit,
You do not need to be in US for that. The only thing is that, it will be applied in Consular processing as you are NOT in US.
Hi Kumar,
Was working in tech on a H1B and was recently laid off by the firm
Couldn’t find new employer so I applied for COS (before end of grace period) from H1B to F1 as I’m taking studies
The COS will take about 6-10 months, and I’m waiting for an answer from USCIS
I haven’t exited the USA since last year.
If I find a new employer, can I reapply to H1B?
Can I then do a Change of status from F1 to H1B without exiting the US?
Please take note that I’m a Canadian citizen (Toronto)
ableton.music.lessons,
No, you may not be able to do it until your F1 is approved. The reason is, technically you do not have status now and you need valid status to move to another status.
Hi, thanks for your reply and help, I understand your point.
I should be able to speed up to transfer to F1 by driving to Canada and get my F1 at the border, and then reenter the US.
Once I have a valid F1 status in the US, can I then apply to jump back on my H1B with a new employer?
Can it be done with premium processing and then COS F1 to H1B?
Thanks so much for your help!
TO ALL CANADIANS!!: very important, canadians are exempt from the new Trump Ban.
https://www.cbc.ca/news/world/trump-loophole-canada-1.5624632
Hi Kumar, really appreciate your help, would you mind helping me with the last 5 questions below:
1) I only used 2 years on my H1B with previous employer, can I still use this H1B with a new employer for another 4 years?
2)If yes, with the ban, is it still possible to file an application to jump back on H1B(without lottery)?
3) Can I file the application even if I have a COS (H1B to F1) pending?
4)Would this new application be considered a H1B transfer or a H1B new application ( I’m no longer in grace period)?
5) Can the application be done using premium processing, and how soon can I start working?
Thank you so much for your help
ableton.music.lessons,
1. Yes, you can. Check Recapture H1B unused Rules
2. Yes, you can file it with USCIS. Only thing is you cannot enter US on H1B, if you do not have stamping.
3. Well, discuss with attorney. If your I-94 is valid, you maybe able to withdraw one, file other in premium. But, if expired, then cannot do it…You need valid status for transfer.
4. Transfer.
5. Yes. If you are not in legal status now, you cannot work right away…
ableton.music.lessons,
Yes, if you have valid status, you can do COS to H1B in premium.
This is clear, many many thanks Kumar
ableton.music.lessons, Cheers !
Thanks for this helpful article.
If I currently do not have a valid J1 visa stamp AND am outside the US,
can I get into the US through B-2 (tourist) visa and then apply for a J1 visa stamp once within the US?
I have an internship offer from a university but currently unsure of how to get myself into the US. Could you provide some suggestions? It would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks!
MadeMyMark,
Well, this is tricky and can be risky…They look at the intent of your entry as well, so entering a country with an intent to do COS to J1 is not allowed.
Hi,
I have valid visa and attorney need to file H1B cap exempt (outside us), is this ban effect that process as well.
I currently work for university/ medical center as research scientist under H1B. Can my wife, currently outside US without H4 stamp on her passport, get H4 approved at US consulate after resuming services, under ‘national interest’ exception?
Hi Kumar,
First of all I would like to thank you & your team for all the good work you guys are doing by helping people like me. God bless you all.
Coming to my query, I quit my full time job at company A during Jan 2019 and travelled back to India due to some family commitment. I have a valid stamped visa from company A till March 2021.
I would like start working in USA again. I’m currently not working in India, can I transfer my visa to any new company in USA and travel to USA on my old stamping before dec 2020?
One option would be to rejoin my old company if at all they take me back.
Is it possible to get new stamping at Mexico or Canada ?
Kindly look into my above queries. Appreciate your valuable time.
Thank you
RKB
My husband has a l1 visa and has been in the us since September 2018, he came back in March for a visit and has been here in the uk since then due to the pandemic . He tried to check in to return back to the us today but was denied as he didn’t have a green card ..
He works over in the US and has a rented apartment …
Advice would be a great help .
I have a valid H1B, am in US. My husband has I140 approved , I was planning to apply for H4 and H4 EAD.
Will the EO impact the application? Can i go for COS from H1 to H4 in USA. Im not planing to travel outside US for this Year
My dependents have valid visa till July 31, 2020. I have applied for H1B extension here and its approved. Since the ban doesnt allow new visa stamping, can my dependents travel in July? Or can it be a problem for travel as they won’t be having minimum 1 month valid visa?
I have a valid L1A visa stamped on my passport. I’m currently outside the US waiting for my visa appointment for my H1b visa extension. Is possible to use the L1A visa to enter the US? For my H1b, is it possible to change from consular stamping to COS while in the US?
Hi during this ban will USCIS still accept h1b petitions with a start date of January 2021? I have an approved I140 for more than 6 months and am in India now.
USCIS approved my case of 28th April 2020, I have all my documents from my employer and attourney. I was only waiting for embassies to resume to apply visa stamping, can I travel this year?
Hi,
I understand stamping will be done only after year end.
But meanwhile can we expect USCIS in other places in India, will continue to work on the pending administrating(RFE) processing cases and l will they notify us on the status ? In this way we can know the status of our visa and save time.
Or, is it that USCIS will not even start on RFEs as well unitl DEC?
Thanks,
Karthik
that makes sense, they should atleast continue to work on pending rfes/221g cases, but based on what I have been hearing/reading so far, they won’t.
Hi,
I have a valid L1B visa till July 2022. I am currently in US and my partner is in India he already applied for L2 dependent visa but due to lockdown visa is on hold.
My question is can I visit to India for few months or I won’t get entry if I leave the country.
No, you should be fine, the process is very slow, it is getting faster though.
please ignore my previous comments, since your visa is already stamped on passport and is valid so you should be fine, but your partner may not enter since doesn’t have any valid stamped already.
Hi Kumar,
I am currently on my OPT and it expires in July. I applied for a change of status to H4 and applied for H4 EAD in February (2nd week). The biometric step is also done. I am currently in the USA. My husband just got his H1B renewed in January. What does this current order mean for me? Will USCIS stop processing my visa and EAD?
Thank you.
No, you should be fine, the process is very slow, it is getting faster though.
I have got my H1B stamped in January 2021. I have never been to US on the H1.
Does this ban is applicable if a person never travel to US
As long as your employer/client/project/location are same as your visa stamped, you should be totally fine. But make sure your point of entry is local to your work location.
How does this affect DV2021?
My husband in usa with valid h1b visa and i live in india Can i get h4 visa.
No. As per this Executive Order, one cannot get any new visa stamped from outside US till the ban is lifted. (Please note – I am NOT a lawyer and this is my personal opinion only).
My Husband is in USA with stamped visa. I was planning to apply for H4 visa but will not be able to due to new announcement. I want to visit him. I have a approved H1B Petition with stamping pending which is again not possible until Dec 2020. Is it advisable to apply for visitor visa to visit my spouse as there is no restriction there.
Technically yes. However, given the current restrictions, situation and trend, getting a B2 visa might not be easy. (Please note – I am NOT a lawyer and this is my personal opinion only).
Hi, My H1B lottery picked for FY 21 and I have two child those were born in US ( 2& 4 years kids). this order applicable for me? If its not applicable what i do further?
This order will not affect your ongoing petition application processing. However, if approved, you will not be able to get the visa stamped from outside US (based on the approved petition) until the ban is lifted. (Please note – I am NOT a lawyer and this is my personal opinion only).
I m selected in this year H1B lottery and my employer have submitted the petition also last week . What would be the impact on my visa they will reject this year petition? I am in india only
This will not have any impact in your application for this year. However, if approved, you will not be able to get your visa stamped from outside US until the ban is lifted. (Please note – I am NOT a lawyer and this is my personal opinion only).
What abt Canadian citizens trying to enter after june 24 on renewed H4 visa (approved this year)? Visas to Canadian citizens are only stamped at US border.
If you have a valid US visa on your passport, then this order is not applicable to you and you should be able to enter US. (Please note – I am NOT a lawyer and this is my personal opinion only).
Do you know how does the H1b work (or any visa) for Canadian citizens? There is no such thing as visa (or stamp) on passport.
Yes, you are correct. For Canadian citizens, it might be different. And from the Executive Order, it is not very clear whether you will be allowed to enter post June 24th. You may want to check and confirm with someone who is legally competent and authorized in this context. (Please note – I am NOT a lawyer and this is my personal opinion only).
I have a Valid I-797, I-94 and I’m in the US , My stamp is expired and my plan is to get new one in August 2020. Now with this new release looks like If I leave there is no come back for me. However, My wife is an American citizen and she is going to travel with me. I never filed for a green card through her because my H1B is relatively new and we had plans to file later this year because we both are too busy now and we want to go through all forms and fill them out together. We did file tax jointly . Does anyone have a good advice for my case ???
ABDALLAH ALSHRAAH,
well, you may or may not have challenges to get stamping. As you are exempt with your spouse being US Citizen…Sometimes, it can be tricky. Talk to Consulate before you travel and make sure they process, before you jump on a plane. Try to see, if there is a way to apply for your GC inside US and avoid travel. Also, talk to your attorney as well.
Was working under OPT and got the H-1B approval this February (I-797). Obliviously my F-1 visa is expired and I don’t have the h-1b stamping yet. Since I am working in US with valid I-797 can I go back to my country and get the stamp and come back?
Thanks
PK,
You cannot get stamping until end of this year. So, may not work out now.
Hi My Marriage is scheduled in India by August and I have my h1b till May 2021. Will there be any issues if I travel to India and will I be able to return back?
Thanks,
Should not be an issue for you as long as you have a valid stamped visa
Abc,
If you have valid H1B you can come back. Your spouse may not be able to come as she needs H4.
H4 Visa Outside US No H4 Stamp Cannot enter US
Why these criteria? I am not understanding how dependent H4 Visa will affect the jobs of America People?
Aveek Roy,
Some H4 holders can get EAD to work in US, that’s the reason.
I have a valid petition of H1b, and waiting for consulate to open. Can i apply for a visa stamp ? will they give visa?
Doesn’t look like that
Ram Sharma,
You cannot until Dec end, 2020.