Due to growing concerns of the widespread transmission of COVID-19, on April 30, 2021 the White House issued a Presidential Proclamation suspending and limiting the entry of certain travelers who were physically present in India 14 days preceding their entry to the United States. The Proclamation will go into effect as of 12:01 AM EDT on Tuesday, May 4. 

Following this Proclamation, the U.S. Department of State issued an update to clarify that the National Interest Exception (NIE), that had been previously announced for students and certain academics who were subject to the COVID-19 travel entry suspensions from China, Brazil, South Africa, and Iran, would be extended to India. This means that students and certain academics covered by exchange visitor programs are automatically considered eligible for the NIE and can travel to the United States if their program of study begins on August 1, 2021 or later. They may enter the United States no earlier than 30 days before the start of their academic studies. Students seeking to apply for new F-1 visas should contact their nearest embassy or consulate.

The Office of International Students and Scholars understand that students may have questions regarding this update and the NIE. We are monitoring the situation closely as we await further guidance from the Department of State. In the meantime, if you have plans to travel, we encourage you to make an appointment or stop by our virtual advising hours. 

Information regarding current travel restrictions can be found here. 

US Embassy and Consulates in India FAQs on NIE can be found here.