Trump’s new executive order published on April 22, 2020 prevents immigrants from being able to obtain immigrant visas at a US Embassy or Consulate abroad if they are:
- Currently outside of the U.S.;
- Do not have an immigrant visa that is valid on April 22, 2020; and
- Do not have an official travel document other than a visa.
What does this mean?
This means that consular processing cases involving parents, adult sons and daughters, and siblings of US citizens as well as spouses and children of lawful permanent residents will be temporarily suspended for 60 days. The Diversity Visa Lottery will also be placed on hold for the period of the executive order.
Who is exempt from this order?
- Spouses and unmarried children of U.S. Citizens are exempt.
- Lawful permanent residents (green card holders) are exempt.
- People applying for temporary non-immigrant visas including B-2 tourist visitors, E-2 investors, F-1 students, H-1B professionals and other types of temporary workers are exempt.
- EB-5 Investors are exempt.
- It does not affect persons who are applying for immigration benefits in the U.S. including extensions of stay, changes of status and adjustment of status. Neither does it apply to persons seeking asylum.
How long will this order last?
The executive order will remain in effect for 60 days and may be extended by Trump depending on the recommendations of the Secretaries of Labor, Department of Homeland Security, and the State Department.
Presently, USCIS and many U.S. Embassies and Consulates are not conducting immigrant visa interviews due to COVID-19.
If you are worried about how this may affect you or your family, schedule a consultation with Attorney Velez-Molina so she may address your concerns.
