What this new proclamation means
Travel restrictions are currently in place for those trying to enter the US who have been in any of the following areas within the last 14 days: China, Brazil, Iran, the Schengen Area, UK, and Ireland. Effective January 30, 2021 South Africa is added to this list. These restrictions are in place even if you are just transiting through any of these areas.
We have confirmation that the Department of State (DoS) National Interest Exceptions for Certain Travelers from the Schengen Area, United Kingdom, and Ireland remain in place and will continue. As of now, this means that students in F-1 status traveling from the Schengen Area, United Kingdom, and Ireland are able to travel to the US if you have a valid F-1 visa and all other travel documents. Students in J-1 status traveling from the Schengen Area, United Kingdom, and Ireland must request a national interest exception at the closest US embassy or consulate in addition to all other travel documents in order to be able to travel into the US during this time.
If you are planning to enter the US and have been in China, Iran, Brazil, and/or South Africa in the last 14 days, you must spend at least 14 days in another country before entering the United States. Again, the South Africa restriction is effective as of January 30, 2021. The National Interest Exceptions possible for the Schengen Area, United Kingdom, and Ireland do not apply to travelers who have been in China, Iran, Brazil, and/or South Africa.