December 2025 Travel Restrictions: What's Changing Now
Travel restrictions updates in December 2025 have introduced significant changes affecting millions of international travelers. The United States announced a potential "permanent pause" on immigration from developing countries on November 28, 2025, while the European Union continues expanding its biometric Entry/Exit System (EES) across Schengen borders.
These changes come amid heightened security concerns and represent the most substantial shift in global travel policies since the pandemic era. Whether you're planning a tourist visit, studying abroad, or applying for immigration, understanding these new restrictions is crucial for your travel plans.
Key Travel Restrictions Updates for December 2025
Several major developments have reshaped the international travel landscape this month.
- US Immigration Pause: President Trump announced a "permanent pause" on immigration from "Third World countries" effective immediately
- Afghan Visa Suspension: The State Department immediately paused all visa issuance for individuals traveling on Afghan passports
- Asylum Processing Halt: USCIS has halted all asylum decisions pending enhanced vetting procedures
- Green Card Review: Re-examination ordered for all green card holders from 19 designated countries
- EU Biometric Expansion: EES now operating at multiple border points with December rollout of facial scans and fingerprint checks
- UK ETA Requirement: Canadians and other nationals must obtain Electronic Travel Authorization for UK entry
Furthermore, the existing 19-country travel ban from June 2025 remains in full effect, with potential expansion to 36 additional countries being considered. Travelers should verify their visa status before making any travel arrangements.
Who Is Affected by These Travel Restrictions
The December 2025 travel restrictions impact various groups differently. Understanding your specific situation will help you navigate these changes.
For Citizens of Banned Countries
Nationals from the 12 fully banned countries (Afghanistan, Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen) cannot obtain any US visas. Citizens from the 7 partially banned countries (Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela) face restrictions on tourist, student, and exchange visas.
For Green Card Holders
Lawful permanent residents are not affected by the travel ban and can continue traveling to the US. However, those from the 19 designated countries now face a mandatory review of their green card status. It's advisable to carry additional documentation proving your residency status when traveling.
For Students and Exchange Visitors
F, M, and J visa holders from partially banned countries face significant uncertainty. New applications are not being processed, and those already in the US should avoid international travel as re-entry may not be guaranteed. Contact your institution's international student office for guidance.
For European Travelers
Non-EU nationals visiting Schengen countries must prepare for biometric registration at border crossings. The first visit requires providing fingerprints and a facial scan, with data stored for future crossings. Ensure your passport photo meets current requirements before traveling.
How to Navigate New Travel Restrictions - Step by Step
Follow these steps to prepare for international travel under the new restrictions.
- Check Your Country Status: Verify whether your nationality falls under full ban, partial ban, or watchlist categories at the State Department website
- Verify Visa Validity: Visas issued before June 9, 2025 remain valid—confirm your visa dates before booking travel
- Update Travel Documents: Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity and meets biometric requirements for EU travel
- Apply for Required Authorizations: Obtain UK ETA (£16), EU ETIAS (when available), or other required pre-travel authorizations
- Prepare Supporting Documentation: Carry proof of accommodation, return tickets, financial means, and purpose of visit
- Allow Extra Processing Time: Visa processing times have increased significantly—apply well in advance of planned travel
- Monitor Updates: Travel policies are changing rapidly—check official sources within 48 hours of departure
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical dates on your calendar for travel planning.
- November 28, 2025: US announces "permanent pause" on immigration from developing countries
- December 2025: EU EES biometric checks begin at major border crossings throughout Schengen area
- January 2026: Half of EU border points expected to operate EES with biometric processing
- January 30, 2026: SR (Special Religious Workers) visa category expires
- February 25, 2026: UK begins strict enforcement of ETA requirements for Canadians
- April 10, 2026: Full EES implementation mandatory at all Schengen external borders
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Still Travel to the US with a Valid Visa?
Yes, if you hold a valid visa issued before June 9, 2025, you can still travel to the United States. No previously issued visas have been revoked. However, expect additional screening at the border, and be prepared to answer questions about your travel purpose.
What Countries Are on the US Travel Ban List?
Full ban (all visas suspended): Afghanistan, Chad, DRC, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen. Partial ban (some visas restricted): Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, Venezuela. Additional countries may be added based on security assessments.
Do I Need Biometrics to Enter the EU?
Yes, non-EU nationals must provide biometric data (fingerprints and facial scan) at Schengen border crossings starting December 2025. Your first visit requires registration, but subsequent visits will be faster. Ensure your passport photo is current and meets requirements.
What Is the EU Entry/Exit System (EES)?
The EES is a digital border management system that replaces manual passport stamping. It records entry and exit dates for non-EU nationals visiting the Schengen area. The system tracks your 90-day limit within any 180-day period automatically, eliminating the need for passport stamps by April 2026.
Are Green Card Holders Safe From the Travel Ban?
Green card holders can still travel freely to and from the United States. However, those from the 19 banned countries face a mandatory re-examination of their status. Carry your green card and additional proof of US residence when traveling internationally.
What You Need to Know / Bottom Line
The December 2025 travel restrictions represent a major shift in global mobility. US policy now restricts or bans travel from at least 19 countries, with potential expansion to dozens more. Meanwhile, Europe's biometric entry system is transforming how visitors cross Schengen borders.
Before planning any international travel, verify your visa status and check whether new authorization requirements apply to your nationality. Ensure your passport photo meets current specifications for both US visa applications and EU biometric registration. Stay informed by monitoring official government sources, as these policies continue to evolve rapidly.
Sources: - [NBC News - Trump Pause Migration](https://www.nbcnews.com/politics/politics-news/trump-pause-migration-third-world-countries-national-guard-shooting-dc-rcna246299) - [Al Jazeera - Immigration Pause](https://www.aljazeera.com/news/2025/11/28/trump-pauses-immigration-from-third-world-countries-what-that-means) - [U.S. State Department Visa News](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/News/visas-news.html) - [EU Entry/Exit System Official](https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/schengen/smart-borders/entry-exit-system_en) - [Boundless - 2025 Travel Ban FAQ](https://www.boundless.com/blog/immigration-resources-trump-2025-travel-ban-faq) - [Fragomen - Holiday Travel Guidelines](https://www.fragomen.com/insights/united-states-2025-holiday-travel-guidelines-for-foreign-nationals.html) - [GOV.UK - EU Entry/Exit System](https://www.gov.uk/guidance/eu-entryexit-system)