On Sept. 19, the White House issued a presidential proclamation, “Restriction on Entry of Certain Nonimmigrant Workers,” restricting entry into the United States for H-1B visa holders unless accompanied by a $100,000 payment effective Sept. 21.

In response, Trinity’s Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Megan Mustain urged faculty and staff who are H-1B visa holders to cancel travel plans and remain in the U.S., according to an internal email sent to faculty and staff on Sept. 20 and obtained by the Trinitonian. Mustain advised those currently abroad to return before the order took effect one day later.

“We recognize the disruption and profound uncertainty that this news brings and will make every effort to support those affected now and as this order takes effect,” Mustain wrote in the email.

The proclamation affects H-1B nonimmigrant workers who perform services in a “specialty occupation” under section 101(a)(15)(H)(i)(b) of the Immigration and Nationality Act, a visa category that international faculty and researchers at U.S. universities commonly use.

Mustain wrote that the ramifications of the proclamation are “still to be determined” and promised to keep the community updated as more information becomes available. Mustain advised those needing immediate assistance to contact their supervisor, chair or dean.

The proclamation allows for exceptions outlined in subsection (c) on the basis of “national interest,” though Mustain did not provide details of these exceptions in the email. It remains unclear how many members of the Trinity community may be affected, or what long-term implications the proclamation may have for international faculty and staff recruitment.

*This story was updated on Sept. 25 and Oct. 9 for clarity and accuracy