On Sunday, September 21, ISSS Director Martin McFarlane sent the following update to active H-1Bs in a follow up to the September 19 ISSS advisory:
On Friday, the White House issued a Presidential Proclamation restricting certain entries into the United States for nonimmigrant workers in H-1B status. In response, ISSS issued an advisory recommending those currently outside the United States in H-1B status to attempt to return prior to the proclamation’s effective date of 12:01 a.m. Eastern on September 21, 2025.
On Saturday, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services released a memorandum clarifying that the proclamation does not apply to: (1) beneficiaries of H-1B petitions filed before 12:01 a.m. Eastern on September 21, 2025, (2) beneficiaries of currently approved H-1B petitions, or (3) individuals holding validly issued H-1B nonimmigrant visas.
Although this clarification provides reassurance for many in H-1B status, it is important to understand that rules and interpretations regarding travel and re-entry may change with little notice. International travel remains a personal decision, and individuals should carefully assess their comfort level and consult the most current official information before making travel plans.
Sincerely,
MARTIN MCFARLANE
Director, International Student and Scholar Services