On October 16, 2020, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), Department of Health and Human Services (HHS), published in the Federal Register a notice that announces the issuance of an Order suspending the right to introduce certain persons into the United States from countries where a quarantinable communicable disease exists. This Order is based on the CDC Director’s determination that introduction of aliens, regardless of their country of origin, migrating through Canada and Mexico into the United States creates a serious danger of the introduction of COVID–19 into the United States, and the danger is so increased by the introduction of such aliens that a temporary suspension is necessary to protect the public health. DATES: This action took effect October 13, 2020.
The Order does not apply to US citizens and lawful permanent residents; members of the armed forces of the United States, and associated personnel, and their spouses and children; persons from foreign countries who hold valid travel documents and arrive at a POE; or persons from foreign countries in the visa waiver program who are not otherwise subject to travel restrictions and arrive at a POE. Additionally, this Order does not apply to any alien who must test negative for COVID–19 before they are expelled to their home country. Further, this Order does not apply to persons whom customs officers determine, with approval from a supervisor, should be excepted based on the totality of the circumstances, including consideration of significant law enforcement, officer and public safety, humanitarian, and public health interests. DHS shall consult with CDC concerning how these types of case-by-case, individualized exceptions shall be made to help ensure consistency with current CDC guidance and public health assessments.
