In recent weeks, a surge of executive orders has created uncertainty around U.S. immigration policy, leaving many non-citizens wondering: Is it safe to travel internationally right now?
While no broad travel ban has been issued, the landscape is rapidly changing, and increased scrutiny at ports of entry and U.S. embassies is already being reported. Here’s what international travelers should consider before planning a trip.
1. Visa Holders: Carry All Documentation and Be Prepared
Individuals holding valid nonimmigrant visas such as F-1 student visas or H-1B work visas are still permitted to travel. However, heightened inspection at ports of entry means that forgetting key documents like an I-20 or I-797 could result in delays—or worse, denial of entry.
Pro Tip: Always travel with original documents, including valid visa stamps, approval notices, and recent pay stubs or enrollment verification.
2. Caution for Advanced Parole Holders
Those with pending green card applications traveling on Advanced Parole should exercise extreme caution. Advanced Parole does not guarantee re-entry, and individuals with prior immigration violations or unlawful presence may face serious consequences at the border.
Best Practice: Avoid international travel unless it’s an emergency or life-or-death situation.
3. Green Card Stamps and Removal Proceedings
Travel is not recommended for individuals with temporary green card stamps (I-551) who are currently in removal proceedings. Even with documentation, international travel could lead to inadmissibility or detention upon re-entry.
4. No Valid Visa? Prepare for Tough Vetting at U.S. Embassies
Travelers without a valid visa who need to apply at a U.S. embassy should brace for increased vetting procedures. A recent executive order calls for the maximum level of screening and gives immigration officials broad authority to delay or deny visa issuance.
The order also mandates a report identifying countries with inadequate screening systems, potentially leading to suspension of visa issuance from those regions.
5. Expect Longer Wait Times and More Administrative Processing
New directives also include re-evaluation of visa eligibility criteria and increased use of administrative processing (221g). This could delay visa approvals or result in denials for seemingly minor issues.
Recommendation: If you are in the U.S. without a valid visa, now may not be the right time to travel and apply for a new one.
6. Stay Alert: Travel Bans Could Be Enforced Immediately
In today’s climate, travel bans or restrictions can be enacted with no prior notice. If a new executive order is signed while you are abroad, re-entry could become impossible overnight.
Final Advice: Postpone International Travel If Possible
Given the volume of executive actions and memoranda, international travel is strongly discouraged unless it is absolutely necessary. Consider postponing travel plans and consult with a qualified immigration professional before making decisions that could affect your status.
If you were planning a vacation abroad, perhaps opt for a domestic getaway instead—until more clarity emerges around immigration enforcement.
Contact Information
If you or your family members have any questions about how immigration and nationality laws in the United States may affect you, or if you want to access additional information about immigration and nationality laws in the United States or Canada, please do not hesitate to contact the immigration and nationality lawyers at NPZ Law Group. You can reach us by emailing info@visaserve.com or by calling us at 201-670-0006 extension 104. We also invite you to visit our website at www.visaserve.com for more information.