Presidential Proclamation Concerning H-1B Visas

• Jun 23, 2020

Dear Scholars,
 
We write to inform you of the latest immigration developments affecting our international scholar community.
 
Yesterday evening, President Trump signed a new executive order limiting visa issuance and entry of scholars in H-1B status into the United States. This Proclamation is effective at 12:01am EDT June 24, 2020 and expires December 31, 2020.
 
The Proclamation suspends the issuance of H-1B visas and applies to individuals who, on the effective date of the Proclamation, are:

• outside the United States, and
• do not hold a valid H-1B visa.

Scholars who are currently residing in the United States in H-1B status (or are outside the U.S. with a valid visa) are not affected. Although the proclamation mentions J-1 visa holders, it does not apply to J-1 exchange visitors in the categories that are sponsored at UT Austin (professor, research scholar, short-term scholar, specialist, and student).
 
Because of the rapidly changing immigration landscape as well as entry limitations related to COVID-19, we recommend that all scholars refrain from international travel until entry restrictions expire or are lifted.
 
Texas Global remains committed to supporting our international community through timely updates, individual advising, and ongoing advocacy efforts.  If you have questions regarding your individual circumstances, please contact International Student and Scholar Services for assistance.  
 
Sincerely, 

Sonia Feigenbaum, Ph.D.
Senior Vice Provost for Global Engagement