Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Nonimmigrants of Certain Additional Persons Who Pose a Risk of Transmitting 2019 Novel Coronavirus

This proclamation suspends entry of immigrants and nonimmigrants who were physically present in Iran during the 14 days before seeking entry to the United States, expanding similar restrictions previously applied to China. It takes effect March 2, 2020, with exceptions for lawful permanent residents, close family members of U.S. citizens/residents, certain visa categories, and others, and amends the earlier China-focused Proclamation 9984.

Federal Register Open PDF 85 FR 12855

Impact dates

Date TBD
Subsequent HHS recommendations on 1st and 15th of each month
Mar 15, 2020
Secretary of HHS first recommendation due (no more than 15 days after proclamation)
Mar 2, 2020
Proclamation effective at 5:00 p.m. EST

Key directives

Suspend and limit entry of all aliens physically present in Iran during 14-day period preceding entry
Secretary of State to implement visa-related procedures in consultation with DHS Secretary
Secretary of Homeland Security to implement entry-related procedures in consultation with State
Secretaries of State, Transportation, and Homeland Security to prevent covered aliens from boarding U.S.-bound aircraft
DHS Secretary may establish standards for port of entry application
Aliens circumventing proclamation through fraud or illegal entry are priority for removal
Amend Proclamation 9984 sections 2(a)(viii), 3(c), and 5
Secretary of HHS to recommend continue/modify/terminate no more than 15 days after proclamation and thereafter on 1st and 15th of each month

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

Proclamation effective at 5:00 p.m. EST on March 2, 2020
Entry suspension applies to persons present in Iran during prior 14 days

Near term (90d)

Secretary of HHS to recommend continuation/modification/termination no more than 15 days after proclamation date, then every 1st and 15th of each month
Ongoing implementation by Secretaries of State, Homeland Security, and Transportation

Long term

Proclamation remains in effect until terminated by the President
Potential indefinite travel restrictions based on public health assessments

Risks & tensions

Diplomatic friction with Iran given explicit characterization as 'not a trustworthy state actor'
Potential challenge to asylum protections despite section 2(b) preservation language
Coordination required between multiple agencies (State, DHS, HHS, Transportation, CDC)
Reliance on self-reporting and travel history for enforcement creates evasion risk
Uncertain duration creates planning instability for affected travelers and families