Major Travel Restrictions Updates Reshape International Travel in December 2025
Travel restrictions updates are transforming international travel as the US expands its ban to more than 30 countries and pauses green card processing for 1.4 million applicants. These sweeping changes, announced on December 5, 2025, represent the most significant immigration policy shift in years.
The developments follow the tragic shooting of two National Guard members in Washington, D.C., prompting immediate action from the Department of Homeland Security. Additionally, the European Union's new biometric Entry/Exit System (EES) continues its phased rollout across 29 Schengen countries.
US Travel Ban Expansion: Key Changes You Need to Know
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the travel ban expansion on December 5, 2025. Here's what's changing:
- Ban expanding to 30+ countries: Up from the current 19 countries with full or partial restrictions
- 12 countries with complete travel bans: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen
- 7 countries with partial restrictions: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela
- 36 additional countries under consideration: According to internal State Department cables, mostly African nations
- Enhanced screening at all ports of entry: Even valid visa holders face additional vetting
Secretary Noem stated that countries unable to verify their citizens or assist in vetting processes pose security concerns. The exact list of new countries has not been publicly disclosed.
Green Card Processing Pause Affects 1.4 Million Applicants
USCIS announced a complete pause on immigration applications from the 19 affected countries, effective December 2, 2025. This impacts an unprecedented number of applicants waiting for their visa application decisions.
What's Being Paused
All employment-based, family-based, and discretionary applications are frozen. This includes green card interviews, citizenship oath ceremonies, and asylum decisions from affected nations.
On-the-Ground Impact
Immigration attorneys report widespread chaos. Hundreds of applicants have seen interviews canceled without explanation, and some arrived at USCIS offices only to be turned away.
Re-Review of Existing Green Cards
USCIS will re-examine all green cards issued to people from the 19 countries, potentially reviewing cases dating back to 2021. Existing valid visa holders are not subject to revocation but may face enhanced screening.
EU Entry/Exit System: New Biometric Requirements for Schengen Travel
The European Union's EES represents another major travel restrictions update affecting millions of travelers.
- Rollout began: October 12, 2025, with phased implementation
- Full implementation deadline: April 10, 2026
- Biometric data collected: Fingerprints and facial scans for all non-EU travelers
- Age requirements: All ages must register; children under 12 need only facial scans
- Data validity: Registration lasts three years, speeding up subsequent entries
- 29 countries participating: All Schengen member states
Travelers should expect potential delays at major airports, Eurotunnel, and ferry terminals during the transition period. The ETIAS authorization system has been delayed until late 2026.
How to Prepare for New Travel Restrictions - Step by Step
Follow these essential steps to navigate the changing travel landscape:
- Check your eligibility: Verify if your nationality is affected by current or expanded restrictions
- Verify passport validity: Ensure your passport meets the 6-month validity requirement and that your passport photo requirements are current
- Contact USCIS or an attorney: If you have a pending application from an affected country, seek legal counsel immediately
- Prepare biometric data: For EU travel, expect to provide fingerprints and facial scans at Schengen borders
- Allow extra processing time: Factor in potential delays for visa applications and border crossings
- Monitor official announcements: Check the State Department and DHS websites regularly for updates
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical dates on your calendar:
- June 9, 2025: Original travel ban proclamation took effect
- October 12, 2025: EU Entry/Exit System began phased rollout
- December 2, 2025: USCIS paused all applications from 19 countries
- December 5, 2025: DHS confirmed expansion to 30+ countries
- December 26, 2025: All noncitizens will have photos taken at US entry and exit
- January 2026: Half of EU border points should operate EES
- April 10, 2026: EU EES full implementation deadline
- Late 2026: ETIAS authorization system expected launch
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Still Travel to the US with an Existing Valid Visa?
Yes, the State Department confirmed that foreign nationals holding valid visas issued before June 9, 2025, are not subject to revocation. However, you may face enhanced screening at ports of entry. Ensure your travel documents and visa photo specifications are current before traveling.
How Long Will the Green Card Processing Pause Last?
USCIS has not provided a specific timeline. The agency stated the pause will continue until "maximum vetting" procedures are completed. Applicants should consult with immigration attorneys for case-specific guidance.
What Happens If My Country Is Added to the Travel Ban List?
If additional countries are added, nationals from those countries will likely face similar restrictions. This could include full travel bans or partial restrictions on specific visa categories. Monitor official announcements from the State Department for updates.
Do I Need to Register for EU EES Before Traveling?
No advance registration is required. You'll provide biometric data (fingerprints and facial scan) at your first Schengen border crossing. After initial registration, subsequent entries will require only quick verification for three years.
What Travelers Need to Know Right Now
These December 2025 travel restrictions updates represent the most significant changes to international travel policy in recent years. The US travel ban expansion to over 30 countries and the processing pause affecting 1.4 million applicants will reshape immigration patterns for months to come.
Travelers should ensure all documentation is current, including meeting proper passport photo requirements for their destination countries. For those with pending applications or upcoming travel plans, consulting with immigration professionals is strongly recommended. Check our comprehensive visa photo specifications to ensure your documents meet current standards.