On June 4, 2025, U.S. President Donald Trump signed a proclamation imposing a new travel ban on nationals from 12 countries, citing national security concerns. This action follows an antisemitic attack in Boulder, Colorado, where an Egyptian national allegedly firebombed a pro-Israel demonstration. Although Egypt is not among the banned countries, the incident was cited as indicative of the risks posed by insufficient vetting of foreign nationals.
Countries under Full Travel Ban:
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Afghanistan
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Burma (Myanmar)
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Chad
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Republic of the Congo
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Equatorial Guinea
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Eritrea
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Haiti
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Iran
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Libya
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Somalia
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Sudan
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Yemen
Countries with Partial Restrictions (certain visa types):
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Burundi
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Cuba
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Laos
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Sierra Leone
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Togo
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Turkmenistan
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Venezuela
These partial restrictions primarily apply to B-1, B-2, F, M, and J visa categories, often due to high visa overstay rates or limited cooperation with U.S. authorities.
Implementation & Exceptions:
The ban takes effect at 12:01 a.m. EDT on June 9, 2025. It does not revoke visas issued before that time. Exceptions include lawful permanent residents, current visa holders, and individuals whose entry aligns with U.S. national interests.
Rationale:
The administration cited reasons such as Taliban control in Afghanistan, state-sponsored terrorism in Iran and Cuba, and high visa overstay rates from countries like Chad and Eritrea. Officials argue that these nations are unable to provide reliable identity verification and background information.
Reactions:
Supporters say the ban enhances national security and fulfills Trump’s campaign promise to reinstate his travel ban. Critics call it discriminatory and harmful to America's image and humanitarian obligations. Legal challenges are expected, reminiscent of the 2017 travel ban that was ultimately upheld by the U.S. Supreme Court.
