In a major national security move, President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on June 4, 2025, banning entry from 12 countries and placing partial restrictions on 7 others. The order cites terrorism, overstay rates, and lack of cooperation from foreign governments. Affected nations include Afghanistan, Iran, Myanmar, and Somalia. Exceptions are made for lawful residents and some visa holders.
Each banned country faces specific concerns. Afghanistan has high student visa overstay rates and no secure passport system. Myanmar, Chad, and the Republic of the Congo report similar issues, including non-cooperation with deportations. Eritrea and Haiti lack reliable law enforcement and refuse to repatriate citizens.
Iran and Cuba are flagged for terrorism sponsorship, while Libya, Yemen, and Somalia suffer from instability and lack of central authority. Venezuela and Turkmenistan show poor immigration compliance. The ban takes effect June 9, 2025, and may be lifted if nations improve cooperation. The policy echoes Trump’s earlier travel ban from 2017.
Meanwhile, the State Department updated its Level 4 “Do Not Travel” list, adding North Korea. Americans are warned of arrest, detention, and no consular support there. Travel warnings also cover countries like Uganda and Mexico due to terrorism, crime, and civil unrest. Travelers are urged to stay alert and informed before going abroad.