Guidance for Visa Holders and Visitors to Seek Additional Time in the United States Because of COVID-19 Travel Restrictions

Visitors and temporary workers in foreign countries are facing the expiration of their authorized periods of stay at a time when departure and return to their home countries may not be possible given the many travel restrictions imposed across the globe.  Governments are closing borders or shutting down airports to commercial traffic, with travel discouraged in an effort to stem the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic.  Visitors and temporary workers seeking to return or travel to the United States are encountering additional restrictions, including embassy closures that have delayed visa applications and visa issuance.  While this issue arises in many countries, this update focuses on the United States.