Major Travel Restrictions Reshape Global Movement in December 2025
Travel restrictions updates for December 2025 bring sweeping changes that affect millions of international travelers. The United States has announced an expanded travel ban covering over 30 countries, while mandatory biometric collection begins December 26, 2025 for all non-citizens entering or leaving the country.
These policy shifts arrive during peak holiday travel season, creating uncertainty for families planning reunions and business travelers with year-end commitments. The U.S. Travel Association estimates a potential $780 million impact on inbound tourism if restrictions continue through February 2026.
US Travel Ban Expansion: What Countries Are Affected?
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem recommended expanding the current travel ban from 19 to approximately 30-32 countries on December 2, 2025. Here's the current breakdown:
- Complete Entry Bans (12 countries): Afghanistan, Chad, Democratic Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen
- Partial Restrictions (7 countries): Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela—immigrant visas and tourist/student visas suspended
- Expected Additions: 10-15 additional countries may be announced by December 15, 2025, with reports suggesting many African nations are under consideration
- Review Status: USCIS is re-examining all immigration benefits granted to nationals from affected countries since January 20, 2021
The expansion follows the November shooting of two National Guard soldiers in Washington, DC. Additionally, all visa and immigration processing for Afghan nationals has been suspended, and asylum case decisions have been paused for all nationalities pending policy review.
US Biometric Entry/Exit System Launches December 26
A major change takes effect on December 26, 2025: mandatory biometric collection for all non-US citizens at entry and exit points.
- Who's Affected: All non-citizens including green card holders, visa holders, tourists, students, and temporary workers
- Previous Exemptions Removed: Diplomats, Canadian travelers, and children under 14 are no longer exempt
- Biometrics Collected: Facial recognition photos (primary), with potential for fingerprints, iris scans, and future biometric types
- Data Retention: Noncitizen photos may be retained in the DHS Biometric Identity Management System for up to 75 years
- Consequences: Refusing biometric collection may result in denied boarding or denial of entry
US citizens are not required to participate but may voluntarily use facial biometrics for faster processing. Those who prefer to opt out can notify a CBP officer for manual passport inspection.
Who Is Affected by December 2025 Travel Restrictions
These travel restrictions updates impact several distinct groups of travelers differently. Understanding your category helps you prepare appropriately.
For Nationals of Banned Countries
If you hold citizenship from any of the 19 currently restricted countries, all pending visa and green card applications are under review. Those with approved benefits since January 2021 may face additional scrutiny. Contact your immigration attorney immediately for case-specific guidance.
For Green Card Holders and Visa Holders
Beginning December 26, 2025, you must provide biometric data at all US entry and exit points. Plan extra time at checkpoints and carry all valid travel documents. Your biometric records will be stored for up to 75 years.
For Tourists and Business Travelers
If visiting the US after December 26, expect mandatory facial recognition photography at airports, seaports, and land crossings. European travelers should also note that the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) is now operational, requiring biometric registration when entering Schengen countries.
How to Prepare for New Travel Requirements - Step by Step
Follow these steps to ensure smooth international travel during this period of changing restrictions:
- Verify Your Status: Check if your nationality appears on the US travel ban list or if you're affected by partial restrictions—review the official DHS announcement
- Update Your Passport Photo: Ensure your passport photo meets requirements for any new visa applications, as biometric systems require clear, compliant images
- Apply for UK ETA: If traveling through or to the UK, apply for your £10 Electronic Travel Authorization at least 3 working days before departure
- Prepare Travel Documents: Carry your passport, visa, and any supporting documentation—digital copies are not accepted for biometric processing
- Allow Extra Time: Budget additional time at checkpoints for biometric collection, especially during the initial rollout period
- Monitor Updates: Check official government sources weekly, as additional countries may be added to travel restrictions by December 15
Important Dates and Timeline for 2025-2026
Mark these critical dates for international travel planning:
- December 15, 2025: Expected announcement of expanded US travel ban country list (30-32 countries)
- December 26, 2025: US mandatory biometric collection begins for all non-citizens at entry and exit
- January 2026: Half of EU border points expected to be operating EES biometric checks
- April 2, 2025: UK ETA requirement expands to European nationals
- April 10, 2026: Full EU Entry/Exit System deployment across all Schengen countries
- Late 2026: EU ETIAS pre-travel authorization system expected to launch (delayed from 2025)
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I Need a Visa or Can I Still Travel Visa-Free to Europe?
Americans can still visit Europe visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period. The ETIAS pre-travel authorization has been delayed until late 2026. However, you will need to register in the EU's Entry/Exit System (EES) with biometric data when entering Schengen countries.
What Happens If I Refuse Biometric Collection at US Borders?
Refusing to provide biometrics may result in denied boarding for your flight or denial of entry into the United States. US citizens can opt out and undergo manual passport inspection, but non-citizens are required to comply with the new rule starting December 26, 2025.
Is My Green Card at Risk Under the New Travel Restrictions?
Green card holders from the 19 currently restricted countries may face additional review when traveling. USCIS is examining immigration benefits granted since January 2021. Consult with an immigration attorney before international travel if you have concerns about your specific situation.
Do I Need a UK ETA for a Layover at Heathrow?
Yes. Since January 8, 2025, US citizens transiting through UK airports need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), even if not leaving the airport. The ETA costs £10 and takes up to 3 working days to process. Apply through the official UK government website before your trip.
What You Need to Know Before Traveling
December 2025 marks a significant shift in global travel requirements. The US travel ban expansion, mandatory biometric collection, and EU Entry/Exit System create new layers of documentation and processing for international travelers. Stay informed through official government channels and apply for required authorizations well in advance.
Before any international trip, verify that your passport photo specifications meet current requirements—biometric systems rely on clear, compliant photos for accurate identity verification. Check visa requirements for all countries in your itinerary, including transit stops, and allow extra time for new security procedures at borders worldwide.
Sources: - [CNN Politics - DHS Travel Ban Expansion](https://www.cnn.com/2025/12/02/politics/dhs-travel-ban-countries) - [CBP Biometric Entry/Exit Program](https://www.cbp.gov/newsroom/national-media-release/dhs-announces-final-rule-advance-biometric-entry/exit-program) - [Federal Register - Biometric Data Collection Rule](https://www.federalregister.gov/documents/2025/10/27/2025-19655/collection-of-biometric-data-from-aliens-upon-entry-to-and-departure-from-the-united-states) - [Official ETIAS Information](https://travel-europe.europa.eu/en/etias) - [US Embassy UK - ETA Requirements](https://uk.usembassy.gov/worldwide-travel-alert-new-entry-requirements-for-us-citizens-traveling-or-transiting-through-united-kingdom-airports-effective-january-8-2025/) - [Council on Foreign Relations - Travel Ban Guide](https://www.cfr.org/article/guide-countries-trumps-2025-travel-ban-list)