ExecutiveOrdersEO
Proc 9996ProclamationTrump 45 · R

Proclamation 9996

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

This proclamation suspends entry into the United States of immigrants and nonimmigrants who were physically present in the United Kingdom or Republic of Ireland during the 14 days before entry, effective March 16, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. EDT. It expands prior COVID-19 travel restrictions (Proclamations 9984, 9992, and 9993) to these two countries due to sustained person-to-person transmission of SARS-CoV-2, with exceptions for lawful permanent residents, close family members of U.S. citizens/residents, and other categories.

Federal Register Open PDF 85 FR 15341

Impact dates

  1. Proclamation effective at 11:59 p.m. eastern daylight time

Key directives

  • Suspend and limit entry of aliens physically present in UK or Ireland during 14-day period before entry
  • Secretary of State to implement visa procedures in consultation with DHS Secretary
  • DHS Secretary to implement entry procedures in consultation with State
  • Secretaries of State, Transportation, and DHS to prevent boarding of covered aliens on aircraft to US
  • DHS Secretary may establish port of entry standards
  • Covered aliens who circumvent proclamation via fraud or illegal entry are priority for removal
  • HHS Secretary to recommend continuation, modification, or termination to President

Who is ordered

Timeline

Immediate

  • Entry suspension takes effect March 16, 2020 at 11:59 p.m. EDT for UK and Ireland travelers
  • Flights departing before deadline exempted

Near term (90d)

  • Secretary of State and DHS to establish implementation procedures
  • DHS to establish port of entry standards
  • HHS to recommend continuation, modification, or termination

Long term

  • Proclamation remains in effect until terminated by President
  • Potential modification based on HHS recommendations

Risks & tensions

  • Open border between Ireland and UK creates enforcement challenge similar to Schengen Area
  • Economic tension between restricting travel and maintaining 'free flow of commerce'
  • Potential legal challenges to broad immigration authority invocation under 212(f)
  • Resource strain on CDC and health departments cited as justification
Proclamation 9996: Suspension of Entry as Immigrants and Nonimmigrants of Certain Additional Persons Who Pose a Risk of Transmitting 2019 Novel Coronavirus · Executive Orders