The U.S. Department of Homeland Security and Department of State have created a new Electronic Visa Update System (EVUS). Certain visa holders will be required to enroll in EVUS to continue to use their visas to enter the United States. The government anticipates identifying additional countries and visa types that will be subject to EVUS enrollment over time.
The first individuals required to enroll in EVUS include citizens of the People's Republic of China (PRC) holding visitor visas (B-1/B-2, B-1 or B-2). (This requirement also applies to nationals of Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macau who travel on PRC passports.) Mandatory online enrollment with EVUS for this group begins November 29, 2016. Those who have not complied with the EVUS requirements will not be able to obtain a boarding pass or enter through a U.S. land port of entry. EVUS enrollment is a mechanism to update U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) on current biographical and employment information prior to traveling to the United States.
Advance enrollment should become available any day. CBP will issue an announcement when EVUS is active. As the launch date gets closer, CBP will ensure that additional information about the EVUS process is readily available. Online enrollment will cost $8 and last for two years, or until the traveler's visa or passport expires, whichever comes first. CBP urges travelers not to wait until the last minute to enroll and suggests completing EVUS enrollment at least one week prior to travel to the United States.
Government Contact
Information website: www.cbp.gov/EVUS
U.S. Call Center: 001.202.325.0180
Email: evus@cbp.dhs.gov
This client alert is prepared for the general information of our clients and friends. It should not be regarded as legal advice. If you have any questions regarding this update, or for more information about this topic, please contact any of the attorneys in our Business Immigration practice group, or the attorney with whom you normally consult.
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