Major Travel Restrictions Updates Reshape International Travel in December 2025
Travel restrictions updates in December 2025 bring the most significant changes to international travel in years. The US Department of Homeland Security has announced an expansion of the travel ban from 19 to over 30 countries, while mandatory biometric collection for all non-citizens—including green card holders—begins on December 26, 2025.
These changes follow the tragic shooting of National Guard members in Washington DC by an Afghan national in late November 2025. The incident has accelerated immigration policy changes that affect millions of travelers, immigrants, and permanent residents worldwide.
Key Travel Restrictions Changes for December 2025
Here are the most critical travel restrictions updates affecting international travelers this month:
- Travel Ban Expansion: DHS Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed the ban will grow from 19 to 30-32 countries
- Immigration Processing Freeze: All pending green card, citizenship, and asylum applications from banned countries are paused
- Biometric Collection: Mandatory facial recognition for all non-citizens at US entry/exit points starting December 26
- Afghan Visa Suspension: Complete halt on all new Afghan visa issuances
- Asylum Decisions Halted: USCIS has temporarily stopped all asylum decisions
- Visa Bond Program: Nationals from Malawi and Zambia may face $5,000-$15,000 refundable deposits
These restrictions represent the most comprehensive overhaul of US immigration policy since June 2025. Additionally, 36 more countries could be added unless they meet US security benchmarks within 60 days.
Countries Currently Under US Travel Ban
The travel ban currently affects 19 countries with varying levels of restrictions:
Full Travel Ban (12 Countries - No Visas Allowed)
Citizens from these countries cannot obtain any US visa category: Afghanistan, Myanmar (Burma), Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen.
Partial Restrictions (7 Countries - Limited Visa Categories)
These countries face restrictions on F, J, M, and B visa categories: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela. Student and tourist visas are particularly affected.
Countries Under Consideration for Expansion
DHS is reviewing approximately 36 additional countries across Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Islands. These nations have 60 days to meet US security and identity verification standards or face potential inclusion in the expanded ban.
New Biometric Entry-Exit System for All Non-Citizens
Starting December 26, 2025, all non-US citizens will undergo mandatory biometric collection at every US port of entry and exit.
Who Must Comply
The requirement applies to all non-citizens, including green card holders, temporary visa holders, and previously exempt groups like children under 14 and adults over 79. This marks the first time lawful permanent residents will be treated similarly to foreign visitors for biometric purposes.
What Biometric Data Will Be Collected
CBP will primarily use facial recognition photography as the main biometric identifier. Additional methods including fingerprints and iris scans may be implemented in the future. All data will be cross-checked against passport and visa records in real-time.
Consequences for Non-Compliance
Travelers who refuse biometric screening may be denied entry, denied boarding, or have their departure unverified. Green card holders should expect facial photos during both departure and return, even for short trips.
How to Prepare for New Travel Requirements
Follow these steps to ensure smooth international travel under the new restrictions:
- Verify Your Status: Check if your country of origin is on the current or potential travel ban list before booking travel
- Update Travel Documents: Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity and meets current passport photo requirements
- Allow Extra Processing Time: Plan for longer wait times at border checkpoints due to biometric screening
- Consult Legal Counsel: If you're from a restricted country or have any law enforcement history, seek immigration attorney advice
- Carry Complete Documentation: Bring all supporting visa and travel documents, including proof of residency or employment
- Monitor Official Sources: Check the State Department website regularly for updates to the travel ban list
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical dates for travel restrictions implementation:
- December 26, 2025: Mandatory biometric collection begins at all US ports of entry and exit
- Early 2026: Additional countries may be added to travel ban after 60-day review period
- April 10, 2026: EU Entry/Exit System (EES) full deployment across 30 Schengen countries
- Late 2026: EU ETIAS pre-travel authorization system expected to launch (€20 fee required)
- 2026-2028: Full US biometric system rollout at all commercial airports, seaports, and land crossings
EU Travel Changes Coming Soon
European travel is also undergoing significant changes that international travelers should prepare for:
Entry/Exit System (EES)
The EU's biometric tracking system began phased rollout on October 12, 2025. Non-EU travelers must submit fingerprints and facial images at border kiosks. Full operation across all 30 Schengen countries is expected by April 2026.
ETIAS Pre-Travel Authorization
The European Travel Information and Authorisation System will launch in late 2026. Visa-exempt travelers from the US, UK, Canada, and Australia will need approved ETIAS authorization costing €20 for ages 18-70. Travelers under 18 or over 71 are exempt from the fee.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Green Card Holders Need to Comply with New Biometric Rules?
Yes, starting December 26, 2025, all green card holders must undergo facial recognition screening at both entry and exit points. This applies even for short trips abroad. Refusal may result in denied boarding or entry.
What Happens If My Country Is Added to the Travel Ban?
If your country is added to the travel ban, your pending visa applications may be frozen. Current visa holders should consult immigration counsel before traveling. The freeze affects green card, citizenship, and asylum applications for nationals of banned countries.
How Long Will the Immigration Processing Freeze Last?
The DHS has not announced a clear timeline for lifting the processing freeze on applications from banned countries. The pause affects all pending green card, citizenship, and asylum applications. Applicants should monitor official government channels for updates.
Will I Need ETIAS to Travel to Europe in 2025?
No, ETIAS is not required for travel in 2025. The system is scheduled to launch in late 2026 with a transitional period of at least six months. Current visa-exempt travelers can continue visiting the Schengen Area without pre-authorization until then.
What You Need to Know Before Traveling
The December 2025 travel restrictions updates represent a fundamental shift in international travel requirements. With the US expanding its travel ban to over 30 countries and implementing mandatory biometric collection, travelers must plan more carefully than ever before.
Before your next international trip, ensure your travel documents meet all current requirements. Use VisaPics to verify your passport photo specifications match the latest standards for your destination country. With increased scrutiny at borders worldwide, having compliant documentation is essential for smooth travel in 2025 and beyond.