April 22, 2020 Proclamation Suspending Entry of Immigrants Who Present Risk to the U.S. Labor Market During the Economic Recovery Following the COVID-19 Outbreak

The new proclamation became effective on Thursday, April 23, 2020.
It is important to note who is not affected by this new executive order:

• Individuals in the U.S.;
• Individuals with valid immigrant visas; and 
• Individuals with valid travel documents.

Furthermore, the following categories are exempt from the executive order:

1. Individuals who have green cards (LPRs);
2. Healthcare professionals essential to combating COVID-19;
3. EB-5 Immigrant Investors;
4. Spouses of the U.S. Citizens; and  
5. Children of U.S. Citizens under the age of 21.

Which categories of intending immigrants are impacted by this proclamation?

1. Spouses and children of green card holders seeking immigrant visas abroad;
2. Parents of U.S. Citizens seeking immigrant visas abroad; 
3. Siblings of U.S. Citizens seeking immigrant visas abroad; and
4. Any employment-based green card applicants who are not currently in the U.S.

It is worth noting that the proclamation indicates that further non-immigrant visa restrictions are likely to be issued within the next 30 days.  Within 50 days of this order, the Administration will decide whether to continue or modify this proclamation. It appears that President Trump's long term plans include further restricting the categories of immigrant and non-immigrant visa holders admitted to the country.