On June 22, the U.S. president signed a proclamation suspending the entry of non-immigrants in certain work visa categories.
We understand you may have questions about how this order will apply to your specific situation.
Suspension of H-1B visas
H-1B employees
Individuals who meet all the following criteria will not be permitted to obtain a visa for the purpose of entering the U.S. in H-1B status:
- are in or will be in H-1B status
- are outside the U.S. as of June 24, 2020, and
- do not have a valid H-1B visa stamp in their passport dated prior to June 24, 2020, to use to reenter the U.S.
Additionally, any dependent of an H-1B who would need an H-4 dependent visa to enter the U.S. will not be permitted to obtain a visa for the purpose of entering the U.S.
Two exceptions
- Since Canadian citizens do not need a visa to enter the U.S., this proclamation does not impact them.
- Certain individuals may be allowed to obtain an H-1B visa if their entry would be in the national interest as determined by the U.S. government. Some examples include individuals providing clinical service to COVID-19 patients or doing COVID-19-related research.
The proclamation does not directly impact current H-1B status holders, those applying to extend their H-1B status while remaining in the U.S., or those applying to change to H-1B status while in the U.S.
Because of the uncertainty regarding entry, we strongly advise against any international travel for the duration of the proclamation.
Contact us if you have a concern about an employment situation. While new H-1B employees will be restricted, other options may be available. Our expert advisors can help review how the proclamation may impact you.
J-1 exchange visitors
The proclamation does not impact any current or incoming J-1 exchange visitor sponsored by IU.
Optional Practical Training (OPT)
While some reports suggested that OPT and/or STEM OPT extensions might be included in this order, that is not the case. No changes to the OPT program were included in this proclamation.
The value of international diversity
IU has been communicating with state and federal government officials to ensure that the many contributions of international students and scholars within the U.S. workforce are known and showcased.
We remain committed to championing the value of internationally diverse learning and work environments, and the vital role that our international students and colleagues have in elevating the U.S. economy.