The United States has tightened its immigration policy once again. The administration of Donald Trump has expanded its travel restrictions. It is reintroducing and broadening a travel ban that now affects nationals from dozens of countries. The new measures took effect in early 2026. They distinguish between full entry bans and partial visa restrictions.
While this article focuses on U.S. travel bans and entry restrictions, it is important to note that the United States has also introduced separate measures affecting the processing of immigrant visas for nationals of 75 countries. These policies operate under a different legal framework. They do not automatically prevent entry. They can significantly delay or suspend access to permanent immigration pathways.
For a detailed explanation of how the immigrant visa processing suspension works, who is affected, and how it differs from a travel ban, please refer to our dedicated FAQ.
U.S. officials say the expanded travel ban is aimed at addressing national security concerns. Identity verification failures are also cited. High visa overstay rates in the affected countries are cited too. The move echoes similar policies from Trump’s first term. The geographic scope is wider now. It largely impacts countries in Africa, the Middle East, and the Caribbean.
Nationals from the following countries are subject to a complete suspension of entry into the United States. The ban covers both immigrant and non-immigrant visas. Only narrow exceptions apply:
Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, Myanmar (Burma), Chad, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Laos, Libya, Mali, Niger, Republic of Congo, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen.
In addition, individuals traveling on Palestinian Authority-issued or endorsed travel documents are also subject to a full suspension of entry, according to U.S. authorities.
Several other countries are not fully banned but face partial restrictions. These may include the suspension of certain visa categories. They may include reduced visa validity periods. They may also include enhanced screening requirements:
Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Burundi, Côte d’Ivoire, Cuba, Dominica, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Venezuela, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
For citizens of these countries, travel to the United States remains possible. It is subject to stricter conditions and greater uncertainty.
Turkmenistan is treated as a special case under the updated policy. Restrictions remain in place for immigrant visas. Non-immigrant visa restrictions have been lifted. That allows travel for purposes such as tourism, business, and education.
Source: The New York Times
The expanded travel ban has drawn criticism from human rights organizations and foreign governments. Critics argue that the policy unfairly targets certain regions and populations. Some affected countries have also signaled possible reciprocal measures against U.S. travelers.
Despite the backlash, the Trump administration has defended the policy. It says the restrictions will remain until the countries concerned meet U.S. standards on security cooperation and immigration compliance.
Travelers from countries subject to the U.S. travel ban or visa restrictions are strongly advised to check their eligibility before making any travel plans. Nationals of countries under a full ban are generally not eligible for U.S. visas. Very limited cases may still apply. Diplomatic travel is one example. Rare humanitarian exemptions are another. Those cases must be approved by U.S. authorities.
For those from countries facing partial restrictions, certain visa categories may still be available. Applicants should expect longer processing times. Additional security screening is likely. Stricter requirements are likely too. U.S. officials recommend consulting the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Review official guidance from the U.S. Department of State. Avoid non-refundable travel bookings until a visa has been formally issued.
