COVID-19, aka Coronavirus, has impacted us all. While the leading agencies in the United States have released official guidance, we would like to share what we know so far, whether formal or practical information.
Travel
The best thing that we can do is MAINTAIN SOCIAL DISTANCE, therefore limit traveling to only when strictly necessary. Some cities, such as our own Orlando City, is mandating to remain home for a few days. International travel should be limited. The USA has imposed a ban on entry for almost 26 countries; however, American citizens, direct family members, and residents are exempt. Some foreign workers could be affected if they apply for admission, coming from these banned countries or from high-risk of disease areas.
Appointments
USCIS has officially suspended routine in-person services until (at least) April 1st. This includes dates for Biometrics, interviews, information requests, naturalization oath ceremonies, etc.
If you are not sure if your appointment was or will be canceled, you can call USCIAS at 800-375-5283.
We have seen cancellations and reschedules for visa appointments, interviews, and many other in-person services. On the plus side, agents are working, answering questions and handling other administrative tasks, via telephone and email. This we have seen first hand from USCIS and from the Department of Labor.
Extensions
We have noticed that extensions requested via email to some deadlines receive a prompt answer.
We hope this applies to extensions of stay, although we are not sure of this. For persons that have an emergency or a valid reason, asking for an extension of stay is a possibility. Even visitors that arrived under the visa waiver program can use an extension of their 90 days' permission to stay for 30 additional days. This is done by applying for a Satisfactory Departure to the District Director having jurisdiction over the place of the alien's brief visit. You can inquire for this at your local Inspection Site https://www.cbp.gov/contact/ports/deferred-inspection-sites
Premium Processing Suspended
For employers hiring permanent or temporary workers, the Premium Process has been postponed until further notice. Therefore applications I-140 and I-129 will have to be mailed on their own until the premium process is reinstated. The applications can be upgraded then if required.
Social Assistance
For people applying for a green card now or soon, asking for assistance is worrisome. However, USCIS has spoken very clear in this regard.
The first thing USCIS mentioned is that any health-related assistance due to Coronavirus will not be considered against the immigrant. Further assistance such as money, food, or any other help program will be accepted together with a clear description as to why the further assistance resulted from the Coronavirus. The officer would not weigh negatively if the aid was the result of the virus's impact.
Health and Well Being
If you believe you or a family member is feeling bad or could be infected with the virus, call your local Health Center/Hospital/Clinic for directions. Most of these facilities will care for a patient, regardless of their citizenship, residence, or legal status, but it is important to call first to find out the best way to proceed and not further the infection.
Stay safe, take care of your loved ones… even better, take care of all the people around you, spread kindness. This disease and its implications are the wills of God. We pray for a blessed outcome for all.