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In a move that echoes one of the most controversial policies of his presidency, former U.S. President Donald Trump has signed a new travel proclamation that blocks or restricts entry into the United States from nearly 20 countries. The updated ban, citing national security concerns and visa overstay risks, is set to take effect on Monday, June 9, 2025.
The latest order bars nationals from 12 countries, including Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, and Yemen, from entering the U.S., while travelers from seven other nations, such as Cuba, Venezuela, and Laos, will face partial restrictions.
The full ban applies to citizens of:
- Afghanistan
- Burma (Myanmar)
- Chad
- Republic of the Congo
- Equatorial Guinea
- Eritrea
- Haiti
Iran - Libya
- Somalia
- Sudan
- Yemen
Meanwhile, travelers from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela will be subject to extra checks and limitations depending on their visa type.
Those already in the U.S. or holding valid visas may still be allowed to stay or renew their documents, but reentry after travel abroad could prove difficult. Exceptions will be made for green card holders, those with current visas, or travelers deemed to serve “U.S. national interests,” though officials have not detailed how that will be determined.
Trump’s team says the move is about tightening national security by targeting countries with high visa overstay rates and weak vetting procedures. The announcement follows a deadly antisemitic attack in Colorado, which Trump referenced as evidence of the need for stronger immigration controls.
It also fulfills one of his key 2024 campaign promises, to reinstate tough border and immigration policies, including a version of his earlier 2017 “Muslim ban” that faced massive protests and was later overturned by President Joe Biden.
Anyone from an affected country, especially those with upcoming travel plans, is urged to check with the U.S. State Department, consult their airline, and seek advice from an immigration attorney. Entry may be denied even with a ticket in hand.
Travelers from partially restricted countries may still be admitted but should prepare for longer processing times, more in-depth screening, or the possibility of being turned away at the airport.
As the June 9 deadline approaches, concerns are growing about families being separated, students stuck in limbo, and workers unable to return to jobs in the U.S.
For now, legal reviews of the ban are under way, and challenges could follow. But unless the policy is blocked in court, thousands may find themselves once again caught in a web of uncertainty at the border.
