The Trump administration is reportedly preparing to impose new US entry restrictions on several countries, potentially limiting travel and visa access for individuals from Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Yemen, Chad, North Korea, and Venezuela.
This move follows an Executive Order signed on January 20, directing federal agencies to assess nations with insufficient security screening and vetting procedures. The policy aims to tighten entry requirements, with officials considering partial or full suspensions of admissions from these countries. An official announcement detailing the affected nations is expected soon.
Trump’s Travel Ban History:
During his first term, Trump’s administration implemented a series of travel bans starting in 2017. The first version targeted: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen. Iraq was later removed from the list. Chad, North Korea, and Venezuela were added in a subsequent revision. Sudan was later taken off the list.
The policy was met with widespread criticism, with opponents branding it a “Muslim Ban” due to its focus on Muslim-majority nations.
Despite legal challenges, the U.S. Supreme Court upheld the third version of the ban in 2018, ruling that it fell within the President’s authority to enforce national security measures.
Although the final list of restricted countries has yet to be confirmed, Afghanistan and Pakistan are reportedly under review for potential inclusion.
Advocacy groups, including the International Refugee Admissions Project (IRAP), have warned that such restrictions could have dire consequences, particularly for Afghan refugees—including Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) holders—who are fleeing Taliban persecution.
Reports also indicate that Pakistan is being scrutinized due to security concerns and alleged shortcomings in its vetting procedures. If the country is included in the ban, it could impact thousands of Pakistani nationals seeking visas to enter the U.S.
Opposition to the potential new travel ban has been swift. Civil rights organizations, including the American Civil Liberties Union (ACLU), have condemned the proposal, arguing that it would:
Jeopardize the safety of refugees escaping violence and persecution. Prevent families from reuniting, separating loved ones for prolonged periods. Hinder business and travel, disrupting economic and diplomatic ties with affected countries. Critics also argue that the State Department and DHS already employ some of the world’s strictest vetting procedures, making additional restrictions unnecessary.
Under the Executive Order’s mandate, the State Department and Department of Homeland Security (DHS) have 60 days to finalize their list of countries that may face travel restrictions. With the deadline fast approaching, an official announcement is expected soon.