Heads up to South Africans travelling to the USA
New proclamation halts travel between SA and the USA for non-US citizens
ALL non-American citizens physically present in South Africa during the 14-day period preceding their travel to the USA, will not be allowed to enter the United States.
As reported by the US Embassy in Pretoria this (Wednesday) afternoon, this proclamation comes into effect on 30 January, and its implementation is based on scientific and public health developments with respect to the variants and the continued spread of Covid-19, as advised by the US Centre for Disease Control and Prevention.
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These restrictions are similar to previously-issued and still valid travel restrictions covering the Schengen area, the United Kingdom and Republic of Ireland, Brazil, China and Iran.
Consistent with these earlier restrictions, the new proclamation does not apply to US citizens and provides for exceptions, including for lawful permanent residents of the United States.
All travellers to the United States, including American citizens, must provide proof of a negative Covid-19 test to airlines prior to their departure.
The Consular sections of Mission South Africa will suspend regularly scheduled non-immigrant (NIV) and most immigrant (IV) visa services until further notice to effectively screen only for applicants who may qualify for exceptions.
Current visa holders seeking exceptions to travel to the United States and applicants with an urgent need to travel are requested to follow the guidance provided at https://ais.usvisa-info.com/en-za/niv to request an emergency appointment, or call +27 87 550 2160, Mondays to Fridays, from 8am to 6pm local time.
This presidential proclamation shall remain in effect until termination by President Biden.
For more information about the proclamation and exceptions to it, visit: https://www.whitehouse.gov/briefing-room/presidential-actions/2021/01/25/proclamation-on-the-suspension-of-entry-as-immigrants-and-non-immigrants-of-certain-additional-persons-who-pose-a-risk-of-transmitting-coronavirus-disease/
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