Update 08/18/2021
DOS updated its FAQ regarding the extension of validity to 12 months from the date of approval and for multiple entries for National Interest Exceptions (NIEs) for travelers from China, Iran, Brazil, South Africa, the Schengen Area, the United Kington, Ireland, and India.
Update Post 07/07/2021
The DOS on 06/29/2021 extended the validity of National Interest Exceptions (NIEs) to 12 months and for multiple entries for travelers subject to restrictions under Presidential Proclamations 9984, 9992, 10143, 10199, and similar subsequent proclamations related to COVID.
NIEs issued in the last 12 months will be automatically extended for 12 months from the date of approval, and for multiple entries, as long as they are used for the purpose under which they were granted.
The extension applies to NIEs for travelers subject to Presidential Proclamations 9984 (China), 9992 (Iran), 10143 (Schengen Area, U.K., Ireland, Brazil, and South Africa), and 10199 (India).
Update Post 06/28/2021
DOS provided updated information on COVID-19 travel restrictions and exceptions including information on who the proclamation does not apply to, the categories of travelers who are automatically considered for National Interest Exception (NIE) at ports of entry and do not require advance approval of an NIE from an embassy or consulate, as well as the categories of travelers who can apply for an NIE.
Original Post 06/01/2021
On May 27, 2021, the Department of State announced that travelers who may be impacted by the Presidential Proclamations (PPs) 9984, 9992, 10143, 10199, and similar subsequent PPs related to the spread of COVID-19 due to their presence in China, Iran, India, Brazil, South Africa, Schengen Area, United Kingdom, or Ireland may apply for national interest exceptions (NIE).
Qualified individuals include those traveling to provide vital support or executive direction for significant economic activity in the United States, journalists, students and certain academics covered by exchange visitor programs, immigrants, and fiancés. Students with valid F-1 or M-1 visas do not need to contact an embassy or consulate to seek an individual NIE to travel.
See complete announcement below: