On January 31, following an extensive review and engagement period with countries around the world, the President signed a Proclamation on Improving Enhanced Vetting Capabilities and Processes for Detecting Attempted Entry. This Proclamation directs the Departments of State and Homeland Security to restrict the entry of certain nationals of countries identified as deficient in information sharing practices, subject to limited exceptions and waivers on a case-by-case basis, in order to protect the security and welfare of the United States. Nationals of six new countries will now be subject to restrictions, including Myanmar. Starting February 21, 2020, no immigrant or diversity visas will be issued for Myanmar nationals, with limited exceptions and waivers granted on a case-by-case basis. A consular officer will determine whether an applicant otherwise eligible for an immigrant or diversity visa is exempt or, if not, may be eligible for a waiver under the Proclamation allowing issuance of a visa.
Some people have asked whether this would prohibit all travel for Myanmar nationals to the United States. It will not. This Proclamation does not affect the issuance of nonimmigrant visas for Myanmar nationals, including visas for study, tourism, or business.
No visas will be revoked pursuant to this Proclamation. This action does not affect existing legal permanent resident card holders. Individuals subject to these new restrictions who already possess a valid visa or valid travel document generally will be permitted to travel to the United States, irrespective of when the visa was issued.
Follow U.S. Embassy Rangoon Consular Section on Facebook for more information on this Proclamation in the coming days.
Read the full Proclamation and the White House statement at these links.
– Proclamation on Improving Enhanced Vetting Capabilities and Processes for Detecting Attempted Entry
– Statement from the Press Secretary
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