From January 30, at 12:01am EST, entry will be suspended for all foreign nationals who were in South Africa during the 14-day period preceding their travel to the US.

A statement from the US Embassy on Wednesday, said US President Joe Biden’s proclamation comes into effect until further notice, as new Covid-19 variants continue to spread across the world.

The restrictions do not apply to US citizens and exceptions are in place for permanent US residents. All travellers to the US, including citizens, must provide proof of a negative Covid-19 test to airlines prior to departure.

“The provision of emergency services to U.S. citizens and the health and safety of our staff and consular clients remain paramount. Therefore, the Consular sections of Mission South Africa will suspend regularly scheduled nonimmigrant (NIV) and most immigrant (IV) visa services until further notice to effectively screen only for applicants who may qualify for exceptions,” the statement explained.

Current visa holders seeking exceptions to travel to the US and applicants with an urgent need to travel are requested to follow the guidance provided at https://ais.usvisa-info.com/en-za/niv to request an emergency appointment, or call 087 550 2160, Mondays through Fridays from 8:00 am to 6:00 pm.