Jackson & Hertogs would like to remind travelers to be prepared for extra delays in visa processing and heightened scrutiny upon arrival to foreign countries, as countries around the world implement steps to limit the spread of H1N1 influenza (aka "Swine Flu"). In particular, U.S. citizens applying for visas to foreign countries should be aware that the recent outbreak of H1N1 influenza may impact issuance of visas. Travelers may also experience additional scrutiny when entering other countries, particularly if the traveler has recently been in or near Mexico, where the influenza outbreak appears to have started.

For example, on May 4, China suspended all rush and expedited visa processing for U.S. citizens, and is now stating that all visas to visit China will take six business days for processing. While this step is not explicitly related to influenza, observers in the media have suggested that this is part of the Chinese government's steps to control influenza in China. These steps have also included quarantining certain foreign national visitors to China. Japan is also implementing health screening of passengers, including possible quarantine, for visitors arriving from the U.S. who appear to suffer from the H1N1 virus.

The U.S. State Department has information on the influenza outbreak and guidance for U.S. citizen travelers related to the outbreak.  There are no official travel restrictions in place due to the influenza, but persons with international travel plans should be mindful of visa and/or customs delays, and check for updates prior to any planned trips.

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