Mumbai: The US State Department has expanded the validity of the Exception of the National Flower (NIES) to the prohibition of Covid-19 travel.
Previously Nies took effect for thirty days and only one entry.
Now, for twelve months after NIE’s approval has been given in the local consulate, the individuals traveling for the same purpose do not need to submit new Nie requests.
It can be remembered that on April 30, 2021, US President Joe Biden issued a proclamation that limits the entry of non-immigrants who are physically present in India for a period of 14 days before entering or trying to enter the US.
Various exceptions are carved, such as for US citizens and green card holders (including their families) and international students.
It also determines the category of travelers who can register for NIE.
These categories are eligible to apply for NIE including medical graduates (VISA holders), which are involved in public health or in the critical infrastructure sector, to mention several examples.
Validity expansion will help the travelers.
However, immigration experts show that it is not easy to get NIE and at present the US consulate does not fully operate due to restrictions related to pandemics throughout India.