President Trump signed a proclamation entitled “Restricting the Entry of Foreign Nationals to Protect the United States from Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats.” This action reinstates and expands upon the travel restrictions from President Trump’s prior Administration, citing national security concerns and deficiencies in foreign governments’ information-sharing and identity-management protocols. It is effective beginning on June 9, 2025.
Affected Countries
Full Entry Ban (12 Countries):
- Afghanistan
- Burma (Myanmar)
- Chad
- Republic of the Congo
- Equatorial Guinea
- Eritrea
- Haiti
- Iran
- Libya
- Somalia
- Sudan
- Yemen
Partial Restrictions (7 Countries):
- Burundi
- Cuba
- Laos
- Sierra Leone
- Togo
- Turkmenistan
- Venezuela
The partial restrictions vary by country and may include limitations on specific visa categories, enhanced screening procedures, or other entry conditions. The visa categories broadly restricted are tourist/business travelers (B1/B2) and students (F, J, M).
Consequences of Ban
- Visa Applicants: People from the 12 fully banned countries will be ineligible for both immigrant and nonimmigrant visas, barring specific exemptions.
- Travel Plans: Clients from the 7 partially restricted countries should anticipate delays and additional scrutiny in visa processing, including a ban on issuances of certain visa types.
- Legal Residents: Lawful permanent residents (people with green cards) and dual nationals should carry appropriate documentation to ensure smooth re-entry into the U.S.
- Employers and Educational Institutions: Organizations sponsoring individuals from affected countries should review the status of their employees or students and prepare for potential disruptions.
Exemptions and Special Considerations
Certain classes people are exempt from these restrictions, including:
- Those inside the U.S. before June 9, 2025
- Those who hold valid visas issued before June 9, 2025
- U.S. lawful permanent residents (green card holders)
- Dual nationals traveling on a passport from a non-restricted country
- Diplomats and officials of international organizations
- Athletes participating in major international sporting events
- Afghans with Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs)
- Applicants for adoption or immediate relative family-based immigration cases
- Immigrant visas for ethnic and religious minorities facing persecution in Iran
We recommend that people:
- Review travel plans and visa applications in light of the new restrictions.
- Consult with our legal team to assess individual circumstances and explore possible exemptions or alternative options.
- Stay informed about potential legal challenges to the Proclamation and further adjustments by the Administration, either of which may affect its implementation.
We expect the Proclamation to evolve over time and recommend speaking with an immigration attorney to determine potential risks to individuals or organizations.
