The United States is preparing to widen its travel ban to include more than 30 countries. The move reflects a significant escalation in its ongoing migration and security measures. Officials indicated that the list is still under review. However, the expansion appears likely as the administration reassesses global risk levels.
Officials Confirm Broad Expansion Without Naming Countries
The administration stated that the president continues to evaluate countries for inclusion. Although officials avoided naming specific nations, they confirmed that the number now exceeds 30. The review is part of a broader reassessment of global entry protocols and security requirements.
Previously, the president signed a proclamation blocking citizens of 12 countries from entering the United States. Additionally, restrictions were placed on travellers from seven more nations. These bans applied to immigrants and non-immigrants, including tourists, students, and business travellers.
Reasons Cited for the Expanded Restrictions
Officials pointed to unstable governments and weak vetting systems as major concerns. According to them, the United States cannot risk admitting travellers from countries that cannot verify identities or screen individuals effectively. Therefore, the expanded list focuses on nations that lack strong institutional capacity.
Moreover, earlier internal communications suggested that the administration had examined the possibility of adding 36 new countries. The new expansion aligns with that review. It also strengthens the administration’s broader strategy on migration control.
Security Events Influence Policy Direction
The expansion comes shortly after a high-profile security incident in Washington, DC. The attack resulted in the deaths of two National Guard members. Investigators stated that the suspect entered the United States in 2021 through a resettlement program. The administration argued that the vetting process under that program was insufficient.
Following the attack, the president announced plans to halt migration from what he described as “Third World Countries.” He did not provide specific names but suggested a sweeping freeze. The broader policy direction has since moved toward both enhanced vetting and more restrictive entry rules.
Additional Reviews Underway Across Immigration Programs
Alongside the expanded travel ban, officials have initiated separate reviews of asylum cases approved under the previous administration. They are also reassessing Green Cards issued to citizens of 19 countries. These steps form part of a wider evaluation of national security vulnerabilities.
A Shift Toward Tougher Legal Immigration Rules
Since returning to office, the administration has sharply increased immigration enforcement. It has also deployed federal agents to major cities and turned away asylum seekers at the southern border. Although deportations have been heavily publicised, the expansion of legal immigration controls marks a deeper shift.
The new travel ban, therefore, represents a more aggressive approach toward reshaping both legal and humanitarian pathways. While the full list of affected countries remains undisclosed, officials expect further announcements soon.
