Major Travel Restrictions Updates Reshape International Travel in December 2025
Travel restrictions updates for December 2025 include sweeping changes affecting millions of international travelers. President Trump announced a "permanent pause" on immigration from developing nations on November 28, 2025, while the European Union continues expanding its biometric Entry/Exit System across all Schengen borders.
These policy shifts follow months of increasingly strict visa enforcement. Travelers planning international trips must understand how these travel restrictions updates impact their journey and visa applications.
Key Travel Restrictions Updates for December 2025
Here are the most significant changes affecting international travelers right now:
- US Immigration Pause: Trump announced "permanent pause" on immigration from "third world countries" on November 28, following a shooting incident in Washington D.C.
- Green Card Review: USCIS ordered re-examination of all green cards held by nationals from 19 countries currently under travel restrictions
- EU Biometric Expansion: Entry/Exit System (EES) now operational at major ports including Dover, with full deployment by April 2026
- Afghan Applications Suspended: All USCIS immigration applications from Afghan nationals suspended with immediate effect
- Interview Location Rules: Since November 1, immigrant visa applicants must interview in their country of nationality only
These travel restrictions updates represent the most significant policy changes since the June 2025 travel ban affecting 19 countries. Travelers should verify their visa status before booking any international flights.
Who Is Affected by These Travel Restrictions Updates
The latest travel restrictions updates impact different traveler groups in specific ways. Understanding your category helps determine your next steps.
For Citizens of Banned Countries
12 countries face complete US entry bans: Afghanistan, Chad, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. All visa categories are suspended for nationals of these countries.
For Citizens of Partially Restricted Countries
7 countries face partial restrictions: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela. Immigrant visas and tourist, student, and exchange visas are suspended, though some work visas remain available.
For Travelers to Europe
All non-EU nationals entering the Schengen zone must now register biometric data including fingerprints and facial scans. First-time registrations take longer at border crossings, so plan extra time for your passport photo verification at immigration.
For Green Card Holders
While green card holders were initially exempt from travel restrictions, the newly announced review creates uncertainty. Consult an immigration attorney before international travel, especially if you're from one of the 19 countries of concern.
How to Navigate Current Travel Restrictions - Step by Step
Follow these steps to ensure compliant international travel:
- Check Your Country Status: Verify if your nationality appears on the full ban, partial ban, or watchlist categories at the State Department website
- Review Your Visa Validity: Existing valid visas issued before June 8, 2025, remain valid—confirm your visa status before travel
- Prepare Correct Documents: Ensure your passport photo meets current specifications and all travel documents are current
- Schedule Interviews Properly: Immigrant visa interviews must now be scheduled in your country of nationality or residence only
- Register for EU Entry: Download the "Travel to Europe" app to pre-register your biometric data before Schengen travel
- Allow Extra Processing Time: Expect longer wait times at US consulates and European borders due to enhanced screening
Important Dates and Timeline for Travel Restrictions Updates
Mark these critical dates for your travel planning:
- November 28, 2025: Trump announces "permanent pause" on developing nation immigration
- November 27, 2025: Afghan national immigration applications suspended
- November 17, 2025: Zurich airport implements full EES biometric processing
- November 1, 2025: Dover port expands EES to all vehicle traffic; immigrant interview location restrictions take effect
- April 10, 2026: Full EES deployment across all 30 Schengen countries
- Late 2026: ETIAS pre-travel authorization system launches (€20 fee required)
Frequently Asked Questions
What Does "Permanent Pause" on Immigration Mean?
Under immigration law, "permanent pause" has no defined legal meaning. Practically, it indicates an open-ended restriction with no stated end date, though such policies typically face court challenges. Implementation details remain unclear as of this writing.
Are Green Card Holders Affected by the Travel Restrictions?
Green card holders were initially exempt from the June 2025 travel ban. However, the November 28 announcement ordered a review of all green cards from the 19 affected countries. Consult an immigration attorney before international travel if this applies to you.
What Is the EU Entry/Exit System (EES)?
EES is an automated biometric border system replacing manual passport stamps. Non-EU travelers must register fingerprints and facial scans when first entering the Schengen area. Registration data is stored for three years and simplifies subsequent entries.
Do I Need New Passport Photos for Biometric Registration?
Your passport photo must meet current ICAO biometric standards for both US visa applications and EU EES registration. Ensure your photo is recent, properly sized, and meets all official requirements before travel.
Which Countries Might Be Added to the US Travel Ban?
Reports indicate up to 36 additional countries, mostly in Africa, may be added to travel restrictions unless they meet certain benchmarks. Monitor State Department announcements for updates on expanded restrictions.
What You Need to Know About These Travel Restrictions
The December 2025 travel restrictions updates mark a significant tightening of both US and European border controls. With the US reviewing green cards and expanding immigration pauses, plus the EU implementing biometric registration, international travel requires more preparation than ever.
Before any international trip, verify your visa status, ensure your passport and passport photo meet current requirements, and allow extra time for processing. Check official government sources for the latest updates, as these travel restrictions continue to evolve rapidly.