International companies have had to pivot over and over again while dealing with the consequences of the pandemic. Everything from travel restrictions to spiking numbers of COVID cases has made doing business across borders practically impossible.
While the pandemic is far from over, the world has had to learn to proceed with business in this new state of normal. That has meant increasing precautions, sanitizing more, social distancing, working remotely, and managing new restrictions put in place by authorities.
At the time of print, most travelers cannot directly enter the United States from several countries around the world. They must first come through approved countries, spend at least 14 days there, and then enter the States. Mexico and Canada are among the countries that are not currently restricted – so several corporations abroad can take advantage of that fact by having their employees who must travel to the U.S. spend two weeks in one of our neighboring countries prior to entering (the rules and regulations on what has to be done in those countries may vary depending on the traveler’s nationality or country of departure).
Countries that are currently banned for travel into the U.S. include:
- China
- Iran
- European Schengen Area
- United Kingdom
- Republic of Ireland
- Brazil
For a more complete list, go here. For some of these countries, there is also the National Interest Exception (NIE), which would allow direct entry for those who apply and are granted this special entry exception. Please note that the system is backlogged, so plan accordingly. It could take 30-60 days for approval, and then travel must happen in the next 30 days. It is also a one-time entry deal, so any subsequent entries to the U.S. while restrictions are in place would require a new NIE. More on that here.
For travelers who are conducting business in other non-restricted countries, they can come directly to the U.S., assuming they spent the previous 14 days in that country. To avoid any potential issues, book a direct flight.
Once in the U.S., CDC guidelines vary according to state. It is best to follow any updates on its website to be safe. For example, certain states are banning travelers from other states if the state is considered a “hot spot”. And some states, like NC, are requiring masks to be worn in public if you can’t social distance (in stores, crowded areas, etc.). Furthermore, each company you may want to visit will have their own ideas as to who can come in and who cannot and what may be required of any visitor.
While this time is confusing, inconvenient, and to a certain extent dangerous, it does not mean that all business must stop. It is just a matter of being informed, prepared, and flexible.