December 2025 Travel Restrictions Overview
Travel restrictions updates for December 2025 bring sweeping changes that affect millions of international travelers. The Trump administration has announced an expansion of the US travel ban to more than 30 countries, while the European Union activates biometric border controls across the Schengen zone.
These developments come at the worst possible time—peak holiday travel season. Airlines serving affected regions report surging cancellations, and the US Travel Association estimates a potential $780 million impact on inbound tourism.
US Travel Ban Expansion: What Changed in December 2025
Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed on December 6, 2025, that the administration will expand travel restrictions to "well over thirty" countries.
- Current ban covers 19 countries: 12 with full restrictions, 7 with partial limitations
- Expansion adds 10+ countries: Bringing the total to between 30-32 nations
- Trigger event: DC shooting involving National Guard members prompted accelerated review
- Processing pause: All visa and green card applications from affected countries halted
- Afghan nationals: Complete suspension of all visa processing since December 2
The administration is evaluating countries based on government stability and their ability to verify individual identities. Officials have not disclosed which new countries will be added to the list.
Countries Currently Under US Travel Restrictions
Here's the complete breakdown of nations affected by the current travel ban:
Full Travel Ban (12 Countries)
Citizens from these countries face near-total entry restrictions under any visa category:
- Afghanistan – All processing suspended December 2, 2025
- Myanmar (Burma) – Full ban since June 2025
- Chad – Full ban since June 2025
- Republic of Congo – Full ban since June 2025
- Equatorial Guinea – Full ban since June 2025
- Eritrea – Full ban since June 2025
- Haiti – Full ban plus Level 4 advisory
- Iran – Full ban since June 2025
- Libya – Full ban since June 2025
- Somalia – Full ban since June 2025
- Sudan – Full ban since June 2025
- Yemen – Full ban since June 2025
Partial Restrictions (7 Countries)
Citizens from these countries cannot obtain F visas (student) or J visas (exchange visitor):
- Burundi – Restricted visa categories
- Cuba – Restricted visa categories
- Laos – Restricted visa categories
- Sierra Leone – Restricted visa categories
- Togo – Restricted visa categories
- Turkmenistan – Restricted visa categories
- Venezuela – Restricted visa categories
Who Is Exempt From the US Travel Ban
Several categories of travelers remain exempt from these travel restrictions updates.
Existing Status Holders
If you were inside the United States on or before June 8, 2025, the ban does not apply. Green card holders (lawful permanent residents) are also exempt from entry restrictions.
Valid Visa Holders
Those outside the US with a valid visa as of June 9, 2025, retain travel privileges. Dual nationals traveling on a passport from a non-designated country are not affected.
Special Categories
Asylees, refugees, and diplomatic visa holders remain exempt. Athletes traveling for the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympics receive special exemptions.
EU Biometric Entry/Exit System (EES) Now Active
The European Union's biometric border control system launched on October 12, 2025, with biometric collection beginning in December 2025.
- Facial scans: Required for all non-EU nationals entering Schengen zone
- Fingerprints: Four fingerprints collected from travelers over 12 years old
- Data storage: Biometric information retained for three years
- Replaces passport stamps: Electronic records track entry/exit automatically
- Full deployment: All Schengen borders operational by April 10, 2026
This affects all non-EU nationals visiting for short stays—including Americans, Canadians, and British travelers. Ensure your passport photo meets requirements as biometric systems require high-quality images.
UK ETA Requirements for Americans
Since January 8, 2025, all US citizens need an Electronic Travel Authorization to visit the United Kingdom.
How to Apply for UK ETA
- Download the UK ETA app from Google Play or Apple App Store
- Create an account and verify your identity
- Scan your passport using your phone's camera
- Take a selfie for facial recognition matching
- Pay the £16 fee (approximately $20 USD)
- Receive approval – most decisions arrive within minutes
Important ETA Details
The ETA is valid for two years and linked to your passport. Apply at least three working days before travel. Starting February 25, 2026, travelers without an ETA will be denied boarding.
Important Dates and Timeline
Mark these critical dates for travel restrictions updates in 2025-2026:
- December 15, 2025: Expected announcement of expanded US travel ban country list
- December 16, 2025: UK Immigration Skills Charge increase takes effect
- December 26, 2025: US biometric entry-exit system begins for all non-citizens
- January 8, 2026: UK Skilled Worker visa English requirement increases to B2 level
- February 25, 2026: UK ETA enforcement begins – no boarding without ETA
- April 10, 2026: Full EU Entry/Exit System deployment across all Schengen countries
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still travel to the US if my country is on the travel ban list?
Generally no, unless you qualify for specific exemptions. These include holding a valid green card, being a dual national traveling on an unrestricted passport, or qualifying as a diplomat, athlete, or refugee. Contact a US embassy for case-specific guidance.
Do I need biometric data for both the US and EU if visiting both?
Yes, these are separate systems. The US collects biometrics at ports of entry starting December 26, 2025. The EU's EES system collects fingerprints and facial scans at Schengen borders. Both systems store data independently.
How long does the UK ETA application take?
Most applications receive automatic approval within minutes when using the UK ETA app. However, apply at least three working days before travel to account for cases needing additional review. The ETA costs £16 and remains valid for two years.
What happens to pending visa applications from banned countries?
USCIS has paused all pending applications for green cards, citizenship, and asylum from nationals of the 19 travel ban countries. Additionally, all previously issued green cards from these countries are under review.
What Travelers Need to Know Now
These December 2025 travel restrictions updates represent the most significant changes to international travel policies in years. Travelers from affected countries should consult immigration attorneys before making plans. Those with pending applications may face indefinite delays.
For all international travelers, ensure your documentation is current and complete. Check our passport photo requirements and visa photo specifications to ensure compliance with biometric standards. The new systems have strict photo quality requirements—using VisaPics ensures your images meet official government specifications for any country you're visiting.
Sources: - [CNN Politics - DHS Travel Ban Countries](https://www.cnn.com/2025/12/02/politics/dhs-travel-ban-countries) - [NPR - Trump Administration Halts Immigration](https://www.npr.org/2025/12/03/g-s1-100218/trump-administration-halts-immigration-19-nations) - [CNBC - Travel Ban Expansion](https://www.cnbc.com/2025/12/06/trump-administration-will-expand-travel-ban-to-more-than-30-countries.html) - [US News - Travel Ban Expansion](https://www.usnews.com/news/world/articles/2025-12-04/us-expanding-list-of-countries-on-travel-ban-to-more-than-30-noem-says) - [EU Entry/Exit System Official](https://home-affairs.ec.europa.eu/policies/schengen/smart-borders/entry-exit-system_en) - [UK GOV - ETA Requirements](https://www.gov.uk/eta) - [Council on Foreign Relations - Travel Ban Guide](https://www.cfr.org/article/guide-countries-trumps-2025-travel-ban-list)