ARTICLE · 13 APRIL 2021

State Department Expands National Interest Exception List

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The U.S. State Department has expanded its list of individuals who are eligible for a National Interest Exception (NIE) to enter the U.S. while regional COVID-19 travel restrictions...

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Envoy Global, Inc.

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The U.S. State Department has expanded its list of individuals who are eligible for a National Interest Exception (NIE) to enter the U.S. while regional COVID-19 travel restrictions remain in effect.

Overview

The State Department is now permitting more individuals to receive an NIE, which allows them to get an exception to enter the U.S. despite their presence in countries impacted by regional COVID-19 travel restrictions.

Eligibility is now extended to the following individuals:

Immigrant and fiancé (K) visa applicants
Certain exchange visitors (including interns, trainees, teachers, and au pairs) who meet specific, limited criteria
Pilots and aircrew who are traveling to the U.S. for training or aircraft maintenance, pickup, and delivery

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