What is national interest exception (NIE) on US visa stamp?
If you go for stamping, when you are part of the exceptions directly listed in the presidential proclamation, then the US Visa Stamp you get in your passport will have annotation that says “ EXCEPTION UNDER PP ON NOVEL CORONAVIRUS “. See the below screenshot. What is National Interest Exception (NIE) ?
What is the NIE rule for national interest exception (Nie)?
The NIE rule of 12 months is also applicable to previously issued NIEs. What was your experience applying for National Interest Exception (NIE) ? Share your experiences, thoughts in comments below.
How to apply for Nie approval for travel to USA?
Your email requesting NIE approval for travel to USA must include all the following details of you if you are the traveler: (*The visa number, also known as the visa foil number, is located on the lower right of the visa.)
Can a non-immigrant US visa holder apply for an NIE?
If you are separated from your family in the US and looking to travel back, but you don’t meet the eligibility criteria for an NIE, there is still a way out. You can apply for an NIE on grounds of family separation. Many non-immigrant US visa holders from India seeking family reunion got NIE travel approval for entry into America.
Who is eligible for NIE visa?
Currently, the following business/science-related visa holders like L-1 and O-1 could qualify for an NIE if they meet one or more of the following categories: Travelers providing vital support or executive direction for significant economic activity in the United States.
Do I need a NIE to enter the US?
In general, you need a US Visa or be exempt from the Visa requirement to enter America. But, when there is a presidential proclamation that bans entry of travelers to the US, you cannot enter America, unless you are exempted or fall under National Interest Exception(NIE).
Do we need Nie for visa stamping?
You can apply for US Visa or travel to US, only if you fall under exceptions for travel ban or fall under National Interest Exception(NIE). Also, even if you have visa stamped in passport, you need to email Consulate and get NIE in email before you fly.
What is NIE approval for US visa?
A National Interest Exception is an application submitted to the US Consulate, requesting an exception from one of the current Presidential Proclamations limiting travel to the United States. Presidential Proclamation 10143 is the current proclamation that prohibits travel from the Schengen Area to the United States.
How do I get an NIE?
Obtaining a NIE A NIE may be requested directly in Spain or at the Consular Office of the applicant's country of residence. The request may be made in person or through a duly accredited representative. The physical presence of the applicant or of their representative is mandatory in every case.
How long is NIE valid for?
The NIE certificate that you receive when you return to your local national police (“policia nacional”) station to pick it up is actually only valid for three months. However, the allocated NIE Spanish number is unique to you, and will be yours for life.
How long it takes to get NIE approval?
It has also been our experience that when applying for a NIE through a CBP Port of Entry, they are usually responsive within a day or two. That being said, we recently had a case when we submitted a NIE request to a Port of Entry, and it has been 2.5 weeks and we still have not heard back.
What is an NIE letter?
With a travel ban in place against certain countries, any traveler originating from there are prohibited from entering the United States until further notice. However, certain categories of travelers are being given a National Interest Exception (NIE), which is given to people not exempted from travel ban.
How long does it take to apply for NIE in USA?
While the Embassy and Consulates aim to process NIE requests as soon as practicable, there is likely to be increased wait times due to substantial backlogs. Please allow up to 60 business days to review your documents and qualifications. You will be notified by e-mail if you meet the NIE requirements.
Can I apply NIE while in USA?
So, technically, you should not apply for NIE, when you are in the US. You can only apply for NIE after you leave the US and you are physically present in the country, where you are applying NIE with US consulate.
What documents do I need to enter the US?
All travelers entering the United States from all other countries need a passport upon arrival (regardless of their country of citizenship). Permanent residents and foreign nationals may also need a U.S. visa. You must apply for a visa before you start your trip.
What are the requirements for entering the United States?
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) Order, which took effect November 8, 2021, requiring all nonimmigrant, non-citizen air travelers to the United States to be fully vaccinated and to provide proof of vaccination status prior to boarding an airplane to the United States remains in effect.
What forms do I need to travel to USA?
All travellers You will need to get a visa or an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) visa waiver to enter or transit the USA as a visitor. You should consult the US State Department website to determine which you will need.
How long does it take to get NIE for US?
It has also been our experience that when applying for a NIE through a CBP Port of Entry, they are usually responsive within a day or two. That being said, we recently had a case when we submitted a NIE request to a Port of Entry, and it has been 2.5 weeks and we still have not heard back.
How to check eligibility for NIE?
The first step is to check eligibility if you qualify for NIE or not. You need to closely check the list of criteria as defined by the US Dept of State on their website. You can read US Bans Travelers from India for the NIE list that is relevant for India or check the US Dept of State website. If you are eligible, then you go to the next steps
What is NIE in proclamation?
The concept of general proclamation exceptions or National Interest Exceptions (NIE) comes into the picture when the presidential proclamations are in effect. Let’s look at them in detail in the next section. You can also read Can US President ban entry to the US for more details on authority and see previous presidents who have used it.
How to apply for National Interest Exception ?
The process to apply for National Interest Exceptions (NIE) varies by country and the related proclamation that was signed by the US president. In total there are about 4 Presidential Proclamations (PP) that are related to COVID banning entry of travelers to US from certain countries: PP 9984 (China); PP 9992 (Iran); PP 10143 (Schengen Area, United Kingdom, Ireland, Brazil, and South Africa); and PP 10199 (India).
What does EO stand for in travel bans?
Most of the Executive Orders (EO) or Presidential Proclamations (PP) signed by a US President that involve travel ban also have a clause at the end that says something like “… in the national interest, as determined by the Secretary of State, the Secretary of Homeland Security, or their designees.” and it looks like in below screenshot taken from Presidential Proclamation 10143 (Schengen Area, United Kingdom, Ireland, Brazil, and South Africa)
How long is the NIE valid for?
Below is the email from the US Embassy in Delhi indicating the 12 months validity of NIE for travel. NIE Validity Email for 12 months from Delhi.
What is the authority to block a foreigner from entering the US?
As per Immigration and Nationality Act – Section 212 (f), US President gets the broadest authority to block anyone from entering the US, if the president believes that entry of any foreigner is not in the best interest of the US. Below is the actual regulation screenshot of INA Section 212 (f).
How many countries are in the Sche Ngen Area?
National Interest Exception Germany Guide. The entire Sche ngen Area, which comprises of 26 countries, includes Germany and many other countries has a proclamation in effect that restricts the travel of its residents to the US.
What is an NIE visa used for?
As mentioned, the NIE visa is simply a special condition, which supports urgent or high priority travel visa applications into the United States. Once approved, NIEs are valid for up to 12 months and can be used for multiple entries.
How to apply for a NIE visa?
Normally, you can apply for an NIE visa through the US consulate or online. However, this may not necessarily lead to the right result and end up wasting your organisation's time and money. By using a trusted Travel Management Company, such as ACE Travel, you’ll be able to complete a Travel Pre-Assessment, which will give you a better understanding of whether the trip is likely to pass the strict criteria for an NIE Visa. Trained consultants will also be able to add value to your trip by making travel and accommodation more cost-efficient, as well as providing detailed advice on travel protocols and restrictions.
How much does an NIE Visa cost?
As we’ve already stated, once your NIE visa application is approved, it allows for entry into the USA for up to 12 months – and this is reflected in the price! Generally, the cost is in the region of £2,850. However, it’s important to note that costs and application times will vary per application.
How long does it take to get a NIE visa?
Once your NIE Visa is submitted, it can take up to six weeks to be approved by the US Consulate.
How Long is an NIE Valid?
An approved National Interest Exception allows a single entry into the U.S. within 30 days from the date of approval.
What countries are NIE criteria for?
NIE Criteria for China / Iran / Brazil / South Africa. The National Interest Exception Criteria have not changed. The broader NIE regulations previously applicable only to the Schengen Area, the United Kingdom and Ireland will now also apply to China, Iran, Brazil, and South Africa. Travellers from China, Iran, Brazil, ...
What Is the National Interest Exception?
Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, there have been strict entry bans in place prohibiting entry into the U.S. These bans apply to non-citizens who want to enter the U.S. for any reason.
When will the NIE End?
The COVID-19 Travel Ban is directly related to the pandemic and its containment. It is intended to protect the American population.
What documents are needed for a National Interest Exception?
Therefore, you should prepare the following National Interest Exception documents: A letter of justification. A copy of your passport. Your proposed travel plans. ESTA approval or a copy of your visa. Your consulate may require additional documents, depending on your application.
What countries can you travel to in 2021?
As of May 2021, travellers from: the 26 countries of the Schengen area, the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Ireland, Brazil (new),
Which countries are eligible for the National Interest Exception?
the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland, Ireland, Brazil (new), China (new), Iran (new), South Africa (new ), or. India (new as of May 4, 2021) are eligible to apply for the National Interest Exception .
Who approves NIE applications?
Now, the US Consulates are routinely approving NIE applications for E-1 and E-2 investors, as well as start-up founders, entrepreneurs and other business travelers.
What is a national interest exception?
A National Interest Exception is an application submitted to the US Consulate, requesting an exception from one of the current Presidential Proclamations limiting travel to the United States. Presidential Proclamation 10143 is the current proclamation that prohibits travel from the Schengen Area to the United States. .
What are the categories of J visas?
Academics: All exchange visitors and their dependents traveling to the United States on J visas in the following categories: Professors, Research Scholars, Short Term Scholars, or Specialists.
Which proclamation has suspended travel from the Schengen Area to the United States?
Travelers that fall into one of the following categories under Presidential Proclamation 9993, which has suspended routine travel from the Schengen Area to the United States:
Is there a fee for filing a national interest exception?
There are no government filing fees for a National Interest Exception.
What is the NIE in India?
However, the Department of State provides the National Interest Exception (NIE), a special entry permit, allowing those stuck or stranded in India to fly back to America, given their humanitarian activities or service in critical infrastructure sectors including national security, public health care, and information technology.
How long is a NIE valid for?
NIE approval for travel to USA, if granted, is valid for 30 days from the receipt of a NIE. You must complete travel within 30 days from the date of your NIE approval which allows single entry into the United States. If a NIE waiver is granted to you, you will receive an email confirmation as below. Please note, all NIE requests are considered on ...
How long is the National Interest exception valid?
This exception is approved for immediate travel to the United States and is valid for single entry within 30 days from the date of approval.”. If you qualify for a National Interest Exception because of an emergency need for return travel to USA from India, but you don’t have a valid visa, you can request an expedited appointment ...
Is the US critical infrastructure exempt from the Presidential Proclamation 10199?
The United States’ critical infrastructure workers of foreign origin are exempt from the Presidential Proclamation 10199 and eligible for National Interest Exception. Indian nationals who work for US businesses in “critical infrastructure” sectors or industries can apply for the NIE travel waiver for entry into the US. The US government has identified 16 industries as critical infrastructure sectors and vital to the American economy. These sectors are:
Do I need a NIE to return to the US?
Hi Siddharth! As you plan to return to USA alone, without your US-born kid, you may need an NIE. Also, you can apply for NIE before your stamping.
Can you apply for NIE?
You can apply for NIE approval on grounds of seeking lifesaving medical treatment in the United States. In this category, close family members accompanying the principal applicant are also eligible for NIE.
Can I apply for a National Interest Exception as a derivative family member?
Hi Meghana! Given your husband is a doctor in the US, you can apply for a National Interest Exception as a derivative family member. If your husband is also engaged in certain types of medical research or studies, it will help you get NIE approval. You can write a letter seeking NIE and carry it while going for a regular in-person visa interview.
Who determines eligibility for NIE?
To the extent exceptions apply, eligibility will be determined by the Department of State during consular visa processing abroad. Applicants who qualify for an NIE exception should request an emergency appointment and provide a detailed explanation of the qualified exemption.
When are national interest exceptions for H-1B visas?
National Interest Exceptions (NIE) for H-1B and L-1 Visas – (2021) January 18, 2021. August 22, 2020 by Editorial Team. On Aug. 12 2020, the U.S. Department of State released guidance on national interest exceptions (NIEs) to the June 22 proclamation. As they pertain specifically to H-1B and L-1 visas, the following exceptions may be applicable.
What does it mean when an applicant has spent multiple years with the company overseas?
The applicant has spent multiple years with the company overseas, indicating a substantial knowledge and expertise within the organization that can be replicated by a new employee within the company only following extensive training that would cause the employer financial hardship.
When is the 9035 ETA approved?
However: This factor is met only for cases with an ETA 9035 Labor Condition Application approved during or after July 2020.
What does the applicant's proposed job duties and specialized qualifications indicate?
The applicant’s proposed job duties and specialized qualifications indicate the individual will provide significant and unique contributions to the petitioning company.
What is a NIE letter?
Letter stating which area the company serves in from the Company HR ( NIE Letter )
What is National Interest Exception (NIE) ? NIE Critical Infrastructure List ?
National Interest Exception (NIE) is nothing but an exception given by the US Dept of State that exempts individuals from the Presidential Proclamation. US Department of state gives the list of who all falls under NIE based on the US National Interest and humanitarian grounds. To get a full list of people who fall under NIE, and general process check the below articles.
What is the National Interest Exception?
National Interest Exception (NIE) is nothing but an exception given by the US Dept of State that exempts individuals from the Presidential Proclamation. US Department of state gives the list of who all falls under NIE based on the US National Interest and humanitarian grounds.
What is a NIE?
However, certain categories of travelers are being given a National Interest Exception (NIE), which is given to people not exempted from travel ban. Subject to approval of a consular officer at a U.S. embassy in your home country, National Interest Exception (NIE) applies to the following:
What is a NIE letter?
National Interest Exception (NIE) Request Sample Letters. With a travel ban in place against certain countries, any traveler originating from there are prohibited from entering the United States until further notice. However, certain categories of travelers are being given a National Interest Exception ...
When Do You Need An NIE Request Letter?
For example, if you are going for a visa interview or have an appointment for Dropbox but are not exempted from the travel ban you will need an NIE request letter to be considered for both visa approval as well as travel to the U.S.
Can dependents take a copy of NIE letter?
Please note: If the primary beneficiary already has an approved NIE letter, all dependent may take a copy of the approval letter for their own visa interviews.
Does a NIE letter guarantee a visa?
Disclaimer: The sample letters above are for reference purposes only. The NIE request letter does not guarantee a visa approval, nor constitute a travel permit nor does it avoid a 221g.
What is an F-1 visa?
F-1 visa classification is for a full-time international student pursuing academic studies.
What determines the type of student visa you need?
Your course of study, the school you plan to attend, or the exchange program you will be with will determine the type of student visa you will need.
What is ESTA in travel?
Fill out the (ESTA) online application. ESTA determines the eligibility of a visitor to travel to the U.S. under the VWP.
What is transit C visa?
Transit C visa classification is for foreign nationals traveling through the U.S. to another country and stopping briefly in the U.S. as part of their travel to the next foreign destination.
Do you need an authorization to travel under VWP?
If you plan to visit the U.S. under the VWP, you must get an approved travel authorization prior to your trip. Authorization approvals are determined using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) .
Can an international student apply for a student visa?
An international student can apply for a student or exchange visitor visa only after being accepted by a school certified in the Student and Exchange Visitor Program (SEVP). Students’ records are kept in the Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS). Learn more about SEVP and SEVIS, and about the SEVIS fee.