Our Immigration Team examines the newest presidential proclamation that adds two dozen countries to the existing travel ban.
- The ban goes into effect January 1, 2026
- Case-by-case waivers are still available, and there are several exemptions
- Companies should prepare for delays in the visa approval process and pause travel and onboarding until employee status is confirmed
The Trump Administration has significantly broadened the U.S. travel ban to include nationals from 40 countries. This latest proclamation builds on Executive Order 14161 (January 20, 2025) and Proclamation 10949 (June 4, 2025) and takes effect on January 1, 2026. The new proclamation expands travel restrictions by subjecting new countries to full or partial suspensions of immigrant and nonimmigrant visas due to the countries’ inadequate vetting and security measures. The policy will be reviewed every 180 days, allowing countries to be added or removed based on their compliance with U.S. security standards.
Full Suspension
Nationals of designated countries who are outside the country and do not hold a valid visa as of January 1, 2026 are completely barred from entry into the United States under all immigrant and all nonimmigrant visa categories. In addition, no visitor, student, work, or immigrant visas will be issued by U.S. consulates to these nationals. Only rare, narrow exceptions for certain diplomatic visas or case-by-case waivers for U.S. national interests will be permitted.
- Existing Countries (from Proclamation 10949):
Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen
- Newly Added Countries:
Burkina Faso, Laos, Mali, Niger, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Syria, and individuals traveling on Palestinian Authority–issued or endorsed travel documents
Partial Suspension
Nationals of certain countries face restrictions on specific visa categories, typically immigrant visas and common nonimmigrant visas such as B-1/B-2 (visitor) and F/M/J (student/exchange). Diplomatic and official visas may still be available but with reduced validity. Consular officers are instructed to limit the duration of any remaining visa types.
- Existing Countries (from Proclamation 10949):
Burundi, Cuba, Togo, Venezuela
- Newly Added Countries:
Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Dominica, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Tonga, Turkmenistan (immigrant visas only), Zambia, Zimbabwe
Scope and Implementation
Restrictions apply only to foreign nationals from designated countries who are outside the United States and do not hold a valid visa on the effective date. Case-by-case waivers may be granted for travel serving a critical U.S. national interest at the discretion of the Attorney General, Secretary of State, or Secretary of Homeland Security. Additionally, these restrictions do not apply to:
- Lawful permanent residents (green card holders).
- Dual nationals traveling on a passport from a non-designated country.
- Holders of valid diplomatic and official visas (A, C, G, NATO categories).
- Athletes and essential personnel for major international sporting events (e.g., World Cup, Olympics).
- Special immigrant visas for U.S. government employees.
- Immigrant visas for ethnic and religious minorities facing persecution in Iran.
What This Means for Individual Travelers
Individuals should confirm their eligibility before booking travel by checking nationality, visa status, and whether their visa was valid on the effective date of the proclamation. Dual nationals are advised to use a passport from a non-restricted country. Travelers should carry all required documents, including passports, a valid U.S. visa or green card, and any proof of exception or waiver approval. Those impacted by the restrictions should consider applying for a case-by-case waiver and monitor airline and consular guidance for boarding and documentation requirements.
Visa applicants from partially restricted countries should expect longer processing times, more rigorous scrutiny, and a higher likelihood of denial. Family reunification will become more difficult because siblings and adult children from affected nations will no longer qualify for immigrant visas. Legal challenges could alter how these rules are enforced, so staying informed through official updates is essential.
Key Takeaways for Corporate Clients
- Assess Workforce Exposure. Identify affected employees and dependents; pause travel and onboarding until their status is confirmed.
- Plan Ahead. Prepare for delays and disruptions in travel or assignments; coordinate with employees on documentation and waiver strategies.
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