National Interest Exemptions for National Team Level Athletes and Coaches 

Athletes and Coaches around the world can obtain National Interest Exemptions (NIE) for direct travel to the United States.  NIE, commonly known as 212(f) waivers, grants previously COVID-19 restricted countries entrance into the USA.  These countries include much of Europe, India, South Africa, and Brazil.  (https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/travelers/from-other-countries.html). 

Fortunately, there may be an opportunity to obtain a NIE through affiliation with a National Sports Governing Body

Athletes and Coaches can only obtain a NIE from Customs and Border Protection (CBP).  This is different from other professions that must engage a Consulate. The change is caused by the Department of State’s authority to issue waivers for anyone involved in athletics, including essential business travel. This now presents two options for athletes from the above countries: go to a third country that is not restricted for travel for 14 days and then enter the United States or obtain a NIE from the Office of Field Operations Customs and Border Protection Coronavirus Coordination Cell (OFO CBP CCC). 

Thiswaive is an option for national team level athletes and coaches who can obtain suppor from one of the following organizations:

  • An Official National Sports Federation in the United States

  • An Official Foreign National Sports Federation that competes at the highest levels of competition.

NIE Services from our Law Office

Our office will lead this exemption process. One of the two organizations above must also be involved by issuing COVID-19 protocol instructions on letterhead. Our office will provide a template for this protocol to be signed by the supporting organization.  

Typically, a NIE is granted within a week of submitting the request. Once completed, our office will provide a letter from confirming that a 212(f) waiver has been issued by OFO CBP CCC. The letter will include the parameters and timing of travel. If necessary, we can also be retained to use the 212(f) waiver to expedite visa appointments.