COVID-19 Measures: U.S. Travel Ban Expanded to U.K. and Ireland

The Trump Administration issued a Proclamation extending travel restrictions to travelers from the U.K. and Ireland.  The ban will take effect at 11:59 pm ET on Monday March 16, 2020.  Impacted travelers include most foreign nationals who have been physically present in the U.K. or Ireland at any point during the 14 day period prior to arrival in the U.S. A similar ban went into effect on Friday, March 13, 2020 at 11:59 pm ET for travelers who have been in Schengen Area countries at any point during the 14 days prior to their scheduled arrival in the U.S.

The U.K. and Ireland will join the growing list of travel impacted countries including Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Iran and China.

It is likely that additional countries will be added to this list as the U.S. and the rest of the world grapples with the COVID-19 pandemic. All travelers should also expect other countries to impose restrictions, and should check foreign embassy websites and airline carriers before traveling.

WHO IS EXEMPTED FROM THE BAN?

The entry restrictions for the U.K., Ireland and Schengen Area countries do not apply to U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, immediate family members of U.S. citizens, and certain other individuals who are identified in the proclamation. Exempted individuals will arrive on flights that are directed to designated ports of entry to the U.S. and these travelers will undergo enhanced screening. Those who are allowed to enter the U.S. will be asked to self-quarantine for 14 days.

HOW LONG WILL THE BAN REMAIN IN EFFECT?

While news outlets have widely reported that the suspension will remain in effect for 30 days, the Presidential Proclamation announcing the Schengen Area ban does not specify a time period. Gibney is monitoring the implementation of these measures and will provide updates as they become available.

If you have any questions about this alert, please contact your Gibney representative or email info@gibney.com.