The United States has expanded its travel ban policy, sharply increasing the number of affected countries to 39.
This decision marks one of the most sweeping immigration restrictions announced under President Donald Trump’s administration.
The updated proclamation adds 20 new countries and the Palestinian Authority to the existing list.
As a result, the scope of the travel ban has effectively doubled.
Why the Travel Ban Was Expanded
According to the proclamation, the move aims to strengthen national security and public safety. The administration links the decision to serious gaps in screening, vetting, and information sharing.
The expansion follows last month’s fatal shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, D.C. An Afghan asylum seeker has been charged in the case, raising renewed security concerns.
Officials argue that several countries struggle with unreliable civil documents and weak border controls. High visa overstay rates also contributed to the decision, officials said.
Two Levels of US Entry Restrictions
The updated travel policy introduces two distinct tiers of restrictions. Each tier applies different limitations on visa eligibility.
Countries Facing a Full US Entry Ban
Nationals from these countries cannot obtain immigrant or non-immigrant visas. Tourist and business travel is fully blocked.
Newly added countries:
Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, South Sudan, and Syria.
Previously listed countries:
Afghanistan, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.
Upgraded from partial restrictions:
Laos and Sierra Leone.
In addition, all travelers using documents issued by the Palestinian Authority face a full ban.
Countries Under Partial Visa Restrictions
These countries face bans on common visas, including tourist, student, and exchange programs.
However, other visa categories may remain available.
Newly added countries:
Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Cote d’Ivoire, Dominica, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Tonga, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Previously listed countries:
Burundi, Cuba, Togo, and Venezuela.
Meanwhile, Turkmenistan received eased restrictions due to improved cooperation.
When the New Rules Take Effect
The expanded travel restrictions will take effect on January 1, 2026. All applications submitted after this date will follow the new rules.
Who Is Exempt From the Ban
Several exemptions remain in place under the proclamation. Lawful permanent residents are not affected.
Diplomats are also exempt from the restrictions. Travelers whose entry serves US national interests may still receive approval.
What This Means Going Forward
The administration maintains that the policy is necessary for stronger border security. Critics, however, expect renewed legal and political challenges.
As the effective date approaches, affected travelers may face growing uncertainty. The expansion signals a tougher stance on immigration and global mobility.
