Major Travel Restrictions Updates for 2026
Travel restrictions are changing dramatically as 2026 begins. The United States has expanded its travel ban to include 39 countries, while new biometric requirements take effect on December 26, 2025.
These changes affect millions of travelers worldwide. Whether you're planning a business trip, family vacation, or studying abroad, understanding these new rules is essential before you travel.
US Travel Ban Expansion: 39 Countries Affected
Presidential Proclamation 10998, signed on December 16, 2025, significantly expands restrictions on travel to the United States. The new rules take effect at 12:01 a.m. EST on January 1, 2026.
- 19 countries face full travel bans: Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Laos, Libya, Mali, Myanmar, Niger, Sierra Leone, Somalia, South Sudan, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen
- Palestinian Authority documents: Full restrictions apply to travelers using Palestinian Authority-issued travel documents
- 20 countries face partial restrictions: Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Burundi, Cuba, Côte d'Ivoire, Dominica, Gabon, Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Togo, Tonga, Turkmenistan, Venezuela, Zambia, and Zimbabwe
- Partial restrictions include: Suspension of immigrant visas and select nonimmigrant visas (B-1, B-2, F, M, and J categories)
Nationals from restricted countries who are already in the US with valid visas are not affected. However, those outside the country without valid documentation may be unable to return after January 1, 2026.
New Biometric Requirements for All Non-Citizens
Starting December 26, 2025, the Department of Homeland Security requires mandatory biometric collection from all non-US citizens entering or leaving the country.
- Who must comply: All non-citizens including green card holders, visa holders, tourists, students, and temporary workers
- What's collected: Facial recognition photos at all entry points, with fingerprints and iris scans to be phased in later
- Previous exemptions eliminated: No more exemptions for diplomats, Canadian travelers, children under 14, or adults over 79
- Data retention: Noncitizen photos may be retained in the DHS Biometric Identity Management System for up to 75 years
- Refusal consequences: Denied boarding or denial of entry into the United States
US citizens can opt out and undergo manual passport inspection, but non-citizens must comply with all biometric requirements.
Who Is Affected by These Travel Restrictions
These sweeping changes impact different groups of travelers in various ways. Understanding your specific situation is crucial for proper planning.
For Visa-Exempt Travelers
If you're from a Visa Waiver Program country, you must still comply with new biometric requirements. Enhanced screening at ports of entry may increase processing times significantly.
For Permanent Residents (Green Card Holders)
Green card holders are exempt from the travel ban but must comply with new biometric requirements. Carrying your green card and valid passport photo documentation is essential when traveling.
For Students and Exchange Visitors
Those on F, M, or J visas from partially restricted countries face uncertainty. The State Department recommends consulting with immigration counsel before making travel plans.
UK ETA Requirements: What Americans Need to Know
The United Kingdom now requires Americans to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization before traveling.
- Requirement started: January 8, 2025 for US citizens
- Full enforcement begins: February 25, 2026 — travelers without an ETA will be denied boarding
- Cost: £16 (approximately $20 USD)
- Validity: Two years or until passport expires, whichever comes first
- Processing time: Most decisions come within minutes; allow three working days for complex cases
This requirement applies to all parts of the UK, including Northern Ireland. Make sure your passport photo meets UK visa photo specifications before applying.
EU Entry System Changes: EES Now Active, ETIAS Coming 2026
European travel is also changing with new digital systems being implemented.
- Entry/Exit System (EES): Launched October 12, 2025, with full operation expected by April 10, 2026
- ETIAS launch: Delayed to late 2026 (at least six months after EES is fully operational)
- ETIAS cost: €20 for adults; free for those under 18 or over 70
- ETIAS validity: Three years or until passport expires
- Warning: ETIAS is not yet accepting applications — avoid scam websites claiming otherwise
Americans planning European travel in 2026 should monitor official EU announcements at travel-europe.europa.eu for the latest updates.
How to Prepare for New Travel Requirements
Follow these steps to ensure smooth travel under the new restrictions.
- Check your nationality status: Determine if your country is on the full or partial restriction list for US travel
- Verify your documents: Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity and your passport photo meets current requirements
- Apply for required authorizations: Get your UK ETA before traveling to Britain; prepare for ETIAS when it launches
- Plan extra time at checkpoints: Biometric collection will add processing time at US ports of entry
- Consult immigration counsel: If you're from a restricted country or have any concerns, get professional advice before booking travel
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these key dates on your calendar for 2025-2026 travel planning.
- December 26, 2025: Mandatory biometric collection begins for all non-citizens entering/exiting the US
- January 1, 2026: Expanded US travel ban takes effect for 39 countries
- February 25, 2026: UK ETA becomes mandatory — no ETA means no boarding
- April 10, 2026: EU Entry/Exit System expected to be fully operational
- Late 2026: EU ETIAS expected to launch for visa-exempt travelers
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still travel to the US if I'm from a partially restricted country?
Yes, but with limitations. Partial restrictions typically suspend immigrant visas and certain nonimmigrant categories like tourist (B-1/B-2), student (F/M), and exchange visitor (J) visas. Work visas and diplomatic visas may still be available.
Do I need biometrics if I have Global Entry or TSA PreCheck?
Yes. The new biometric requirements apply to all non-citizens regardless of trusted traveler status. There are no exemptions for Global Entry, TSA PreCheck, or NEXUS members who are not US citizens.
What happens if my UK ETA application is denied?
If denied, you cannot travel to the UK without obtaining a visa. You may appeal the decision or apply for a standard visitor visa through the UK Visa and Immigration service. Ensure your passport photo meets requirements to avoid delays.
Is ETIAS the same as a Schengen visa?
No. ETIAS is a travel authorization for visa-exempt travelers, not a visa. It allows stays of up to 90 days within 180 days in the Schengen Area. If you need to stay longer or for purposes like work or study, you'll need a Schengen visa.
What You Need to Know: Bottom Line
The travel landscape is changing significantly in 2026. The US has expanded its travel ban to 39 countries, mandatory biometrics begin December 26, 2025, and the UK now requires ETAs for American visitors.
Before booking any international travel, verify your eligibility, ensure your passport photo meets the latest requirements, and apply for any required authorizations well in advance. VisaPics can help ensure your travel documents and photos comply with the latest specifications for any destination worldwide.