U.S. Implements Travel Ban on 12 Countries and Tightens Visa Restrictions for 7 Nations

The United States is making significant changes to its travel and immigration policies. Effective June 9, 2025, a new travel ban will restrict entry from 19 countries. This includes a complete ban for 12 nations and partial restrictions for 7 others. These changes also affect international students and travelers from Visa Waiver countries.

Full Travel Ban for 12 Countries

Starting June 9, 2025, citizens from 12 countries will face a complete travel ban. This ban halts visa issuance across nearly all categories. Travelers from these nations will not be allowed entry for tourism, business, study, or immigration. Even those with valid visas may find their entry denied.

Fully Banned Countries

• Afghanistan
• Burma (Myanmar)
• Chad
• Equatorial Guinea
• Eritrea
• Haiti
• Iran
• Libya
• Republic of the Congo
• Somalia
• Sudan
• Yemen

Key Restrictions

• General Entry Ban: Almost all entries are prohibited, with very few exceptions for diplomacy or urgent humanitarian needs.
• Visa Suspension: The U.S. will stop issuing both non-immigrant and immigrant visas, with rare exceptions.
• Existing Visas at Risk: Even valid visa holders may be denied entry, subject to case-by-case reviews.

Partial Travel Restrictions for 7 Nations

In addition to the full ban, seven countries will experience targeted restrictions. These include increased scrutiny and specific visa category suspensions.

Countries Facing Partial Restrictions

• Burundi
• Cuba
• Laos
• Sierra Leone
• Togo
• Turkmenistan
• Venezuela

Key Restrictions

• Valid Visas May Be Rejected: Those with existing U.S. visas might still be denied entry based on individual assessments.
• Complete Entry Ban: Citizens from these countries will not be allowed entry under any visa type.
• Limited Exceptions: In rare cases, entry may be permitted, such as for diplomats or in urgent humanitarian situations, subject to strict review.
• All Visas Suspended: Visa issuance for non-immigrant and immigrant categories is halted until further notice.

New ESTA Requirement: Mandatory Selfie for Visa-Free Travelers

Travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries are also affected. A new biometric requirement has been added to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) process.

What’s New?

Travelers now required to upload a facial photo during their ESTA application. This selfie will assist in automated facial recognition and will be matched with passport data. This requirement is effective immediately for mobile apps and will roll out to the web version shortly.

Why This Ban Now?

Former President Trump cited a recent terror attack in Boulder, Colorado, as a reason for the new restrictions. Although Egypt is not on the banned list, the incident highlighted perceived weaknesses in the immigration system.

“The recent terror attack in Boulder underscored the dangers posed by foreign nationals not properly vetted,” Trump stated during a press conference.

A New Era of U.S. Travel Policy?

This travel proclamation signals a return to stricter immigration policies reminiscent of those under the Trump administration. The implications for global mobility, higher education, and visa-free travel are significant. As further policy changes may arise, international travelers should remain informed and seek legal guidance if needed.