What is a national interest exception (Nie)?
What is a National Interest Exception (NIE)? 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.
How to apply for Nie to travel to the US?
Apply for NIE to Travel to US with valid Visa If you already have a US Visa that is valid in your passport, all you need is NIE approval from the US Consulate that issued your visa to travel to US. For that, you need to send an email in the below format to the consulate or embassy that issued your current valid visa.
Can a B2 visa holder apply for an NIE waiver?
You want to take her to the US. Though she (on B2 visa) is not eligible for an NIE waiver, you can seek a National Interest Exception for her on the humanitarian ground.
What is the validity of NIE for travel to USA?
Below is the email from the US Embassy in Delhi indicating the 12 months validity of NIE for travel. If you do not have valid US visa yet, then you would use this approval email to apply for in-person interview or directly attend in-person Visa interview.
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.
Do we need NIE to travel to USA?
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.
Is NIE required for visa?
Apply for NIE to Travel to US with valid Visa If you already have a US Visa that is valid in your passport, all you need is NIE approval from the US Consulate that issued your visa to travel to US. For that, you need to send an email in the below format to the consulate or embassy that issued your current valid visa.
How can I apply for NIE from India in USA?
You need to seek NIE approval from the US consulate where the visa was stamped on your passport. If the US Embassy, New Delhi has given you the visa, you should send an email to [email protected]. If it is the US Consulate Chennai, you should send an email application to [email protected].
Who qualifies for NIE visa?
U.S. citizens. Green Card holders / Lawful Permanent Residents. close family members of U.S. citizens or green card holders (including, among others, spouses and children under 21) crew members of airlines or shipping companies (C-1/D visas)
How long is NIE valid for?
12 monthsUnless otherwise indicated, existing NIEs will be valid for 12 months from the date of approval and for multiple entries, as long as they are used for the same purpose under which they were granted. Previously, NIEs were valid for 30 days and a single entry.
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 do I check my NIE status?
You can send an SMS to the following number: 600124377 (the SMS is free of charge). The SMS should contain the word "NIE" and your NIE number (e.g. NIE X00000111L). Keep in mind you need to leave a space between "NIE" and your actual NIE number.
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.
How long does it take to get NIE?
two weeksNIEs are issued by the General Commissariat for Immigration and Borders, of the Spanish Directorate-General for the Police. As a rule, a NIE is issued in up to two weeks after submission of the application. But in certain cases its issuance may take longer. The Embassy cannot shorten the document's processing time.
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.
Can we apply NIE for B2 visa?
Previously, I knew that B1/B2 visa holders from India are not eligible for NIE approval. Fortunately, I came across this NIE-related article in Indian Eagle's email newsletter and learned that Indians on B1/B2 visa can seek a National Interest Exception for travel to the US in certain categories.
What documents do I need for entry to USA?
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.
How long does it take to get NIE approval?
The waiting times for processing can take up to a maximum of 60 working days. If the NIE application is approved, you will receive an approval message via e-mail and all applicants must enter the United States within 30 days of the approval date.
Can we apply for NIE while in the US?
Basically, you cannot apply from the US or any other country. You need to be physically present in India.
How can I go to USA from India?
You can apply for a US tourist visa following simple steps.Download and fill the Visa Electronic Application Form (DS-160).Pay the required visa application fee.The candidate can then schedule the interview. ... Last, visit the U.S. Embassy on the date of interview.
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
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.
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)
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.
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 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 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.
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.
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 a U.S. Visa?
A citizen of a foreign country who seeks to enter the United States generally must first obtain a U.S. visa, which is placed in the traveler’s passport, a travel document issued by the traveler’s country of citizenship.
Find out what visa type is appropriate for you
The type of visa you must obtain is defined by U.S. immigration law, and relates to the purpose of your travel.
Visa Appointment Wait Time
A wait time listed as "999 calendar days" indicates that the Consular Section is only providing that service to emergency cases. Please check the Embassy or Consulate website for further information.
