A Presidential Proclamation suspends the entry of non-permanent resident foreign nationals who were present in South Africa, Brazil, the United Kingdom, Ireland, People’s Republic of China (not including the Special Administrative Regions of Hong Kong and Macau), Iran, India and the 26 countries that comprise the Schengen Area within 14 days prior to their arrival at the port of entry in the United States. This means that even if you have a valid visa or ESTA, you cannot travel to the United States while this Presidential Proclamation is in effect, unless you receive a national interest exception. For more information on the presidential proclamations, see the https://travel.state.gov website.

Students with valid F or M visas and a valid I-20 form may travel to the United States without notifying the embassy to request an exception.  All other travelers that already have valid visas or ESTA authorization must receive approval for a national interest exception prior to transiting any of these areas. Applicants for National Interest Exceptions must be legally resident and physically present in Israel, the West Bank, or Gaza in order to apply.  If you believe you qualify for a national interest exception, please send an email with the subject line “National Interest Exception – [LAST NAME, FIRST NAME]” that contains the following information to jerusalemniv@state.gov if the visa was issued in Jerusalem or nivtelaviv@state.gov if the visa was issued in Tel Aviv.

· A scanned copy of your visa or ESTA authorization

· A scanned copy of your passport biographic page

· Purpose of travel (and any supporting documents)

· Proposed itinerary

· Ministry of Health Approval Notice

Travelers should allow three business days for the Embassy to review their documents and qualifications.  Travelers will be notified by e-mail if they receive approval for an exception. Do not attempt to check in online or travel before you receive e-mail notification of your approval.