U.S. Bans Travel from Europe for Foreign Nationals
Update 3/14: US Extending Europe Travel Ban Restrictions to UK and Ireland
All travel from Europe to the U.S. will be suspended for 30 days starting Friday at midnight in an effort to quell the spread of coronavirus. Entry of most foreign nationals who have been in certain European countries at any point during the 14 days prior to their scheduled arrival to the United States will be prohibited.
These countries, known as the Schengen Area, include: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.
The new travel restrictions do not apply to the United Kingdom. Earlier today, the World Health Organization declaring coronavirus a pandemic.
“To keep new cases from entering our shores, we will be suspending all travel from Europe to the United States for the next 30 days,” Trump said.
Trump’s announcement prompted questions Wednesday night, and administration officials later clarified the travel restrictions would only apply to foreign nationals coming from 26 European countries. The restrictions will not apply to US citizens, (generally) immediate family members of U.S. citizens, legal permanent residents, and other individuals who are identified in the proclamation.
“Every American that is returning from Europe will be screened as they return through 13 separate airports, and will be asked to self-quarantine for 14 days,” vice-president Pence said later.
Over 1,300 cases have already been confirmed in the United States, with 38 deaths so far. Italy is the country worst hit by coronavirus after China, with 12,462 cases and 827 deaths. You can see a live map of the coronavirus cases here. Also check out these two articles for possible waived fees from airlines and hootels:
