On February 24, 2021, the Biden Administration issued a Presidential Proclamation that reversed President Trump’s EO that, for more than 10 months, has prevented many foreign nationals physically outside the United States from obtaining an Immigrant Visa which, upon issuance and admission to the United States, would automatically convert the individual to a U.S. Lawful Permanent Resident (“LPR”). Passed under the guise of protecting the U.S. workforce since LPRs are permitted to accept any and all forms of employment, in effect, the ban served to keep close family members of U.S. Citizens and Permanent Residents, diversity visa lottery winners, key employees, and others from obtaining the Immigrant Visa that would permit them to assume LPR status.
Though heartened by this move, the Biden Administration appears as though it will not lift the suspension on certain H, L, and J Visas that is in place through March 31, 2021. Moreover, COVID-19-related complications persist when it comes to international travel and visa services, by and large. That being said, this move is an encouraging sign for immigrant visa applicants around the world eager to reunify with their families and/or commence their lives in the United States.
If you have any questions regarding whether you are impacted by this latest Proclamation, we suggest you reach out to our Firm to schedule a consultation.
