Major US Travel Ban Now in Effect
The United States implemented comprehensive travel restrictions on June 9, 2025 at 12:01am EDT, affecting citizens from 19 countries worldwide. This sweeping nationality-based travel ban represents one of the most significant changes to US immigration policy in recent years, impacting millions of potential travelers, students, and immigrants.
The proclamation divides affected countries into two categories: full travel bans covering 12 nations and partial restrictions targeting specific visa types for 7 additional countries. However, several important exemptions exist that may allow certain travelers to enter despite the restrictions.
Countries Under Full Travel Ban
Citizens from these 12 countries face complete suspension of both immigrant and nonimmigrant visa issuance with limited exceptions:
- Afghanistan: Full travel ban with humanitarian exemptions available
- Burma (Myanmar): Recently added to high-risk countries list
- Chad: Full suspension of visa processing for all categories
- Republic of the Congo: Complete travel ban on new visa applications
- Equatorial Guinea: All visa categories suspended indefinitely
- Eritrea: Full ban affecting both immigrant and nonimmigrant visas
- Haiti: Complete travel restrictions with limited exceptions
- Iran: Full suspension continuing from previous restrictions
- Libya: All visa processing halted for citizens
- Somalia: Complete travel ban with narrow exemptions
- Sudan: Full restrictions on all visa categories
- Yemen: Complete suspension of visa issuance
Important note: Travelers from these countries who received valid visas before June 9, 2025 can still use them to enter the United States. The restrictions only apply to new visa applications submitted after the effective date.
Countries Under Partial Travel Restrictions
Seven countries face targeted restrictions primarily affecting student and exchange visitor programs:
- Burundi: F and J visa categories prohibited for new applicants
- Cuba: Restrictions on specific nonimmigrant visa types
- Laos: Educational and exchange visas suspended
- Sierra Leone: F and J visa processing halted
- Togo: Student visa categories restricted
- Turkmenistan: Partial ban on educational visas
- Venezuela: Targeted restrictions on specific visa types
Citizens from these countries can still apply for other visa categories not explicitly prohibited by the proclamation. Business visas, tourist visas, and certain work visas may remain available depending on individual circumstances.
Who Is Affected and Key Exemptions
The travel restrictions do not apply to everyone from the affected countries. Several critical exemptions ensure that certain groups can continue entering the United States.
For Green Card Holders
Lawful permanent residents are completely exempt from the travel ban. If you hold a valid green card, you can travel to and from the United States without any additional restrictions, regardless of your country of citizenship. The ban only affects those applying for new entry into the US.
For Current Visa Holders
Anyone who holds a valid visa as of June 9, 2025 is not subject to the proclamation, even if they are currently outside the United States. This means your existing visa remains valid for its entire duration. You can continue using it for travel without needing to reapply or obtain special permission.
For Students and Families
Certain humanitarian and family-based exemptions may be available on a case-by-case basis. US citizens with immediate family members in affected countries should consult with immigration attorneys about potential waiver applications. Additionally, some students already enrolled in US universities may qualify for emergency exemptions.
How to Navigate the Travel Ban - Step by Step
Follow these steps if you're affected by the new restrictions:
- Verify Your Current Status: Check if you already hold a valid visa issued before June 9, 2025 - if so, you can still use it for travel
- Review Exemption Categories: Determine if you qualify for green card holder exemption, diplomatic visa, or humanitarian waiver
- Consult Immigration Attorney: If you need to apply for a new visa from an affected country, seek legal counsel about potential waivers or alternative pathways
- Ensure Passport Photo Requirements: Make sure your passport photo meets current requirements before any visa application attempts
- Monitor Policy Updates: Check the State Department website regularly as additional countries may be added or restrictions may be modified
- Consider Alternative Destinations: If travel to the US is not possible, research visa requirements for Canada, UK, or European countries as alternatives
Important Dates and Timeline
Keep track of these critical dates for compliance:
- June 4, 2025: Presidential proclamation announced outlining travel restrictions for 19 countries
- June 9, 2025, 12:01am EDT: Travel ban officially takes effect - new visa applications affected
- September 6, 2025: New interview location requirements begin - applicants must interview in country of residence
- November 1, 2025: Enhanced interview requirements for immigrant visas implemented
- December 26, 2025: New biometric system launches at all US entry and exit points for non-citizens
- Future TBD: Up to 36 additional countries may be added unless they meet specific security benchmarks
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Still Visit the US If I Have a Valid Visa From Before June 9?
Yes, absolutely. If you hold a valid visa issued before June 9, 2025, you can continue using it regardless of the travel ban. The restrictions only apply to new visa applications submitted after the effective date. However, you must ensure your visa has not expired and your passport photo meets current requirements when traveling.
What If I'm a Green Card Holder From a Banned Country?
You are completely exempt from the travel ban. Lawful permanent residents can travel freely to and from the United States without any additional restrictions or paperwork. The travel ban does not affect your ability to maintain your green card status or your right to enter the US.
Will More Countries Be Added to the Travel Ban List?
Potentially, yes. Government officials have indicated that as many as 36 additional countries, most of which are in Africa, may be added to the travel ban unless they improve on certain security and information-sharing benchmarks. Travelers should monitor State Department announcements regularly for updates to the list of affected countries.
Can I Apply for a Waiver to the Travel Ban?
Limited waivers are available on a case-by-case basis. Humanitarian situations, immediate family connections to US citizens, and certain national interest considerations may qualify for exemptions. However, the waiver process is complex and requires substantial documentation. Consulting with an experienced immigration attorney is strongly recommended before attempting a waiver application.
What You Need to Know Moving Forward
The 2025 travel restrictions represent a significant shift in US immigration policy, affecting millions of potential visitors, students, and immigrants from 19 countries. While the bans create substantial barriers, important exemptions exist for green card holders and those with visas issued before June 9, 2025. Additionally, up to 36 more countries could face similar restrictions in the coming months if they don't meet specified security standards.
If you're planning international travel or need a visa for the United States, take action now. Ensure your passport photo meets requirements by using services like VisaPics to get compliant photos for any visa application. Monitor State Department updates regularly, consult with immigration professionals if you're affected by the ban, and maintain copies of all travel documents. For those applying for visas to unaffected countries, verify that your documentation meets all specifications to avoid delays or rejections.