Washington D.C. – June 4, 2025 – In a significant national security measure, President Donald Trump today signed a proclamation that will ban entry from 12 countries and impose partial restrictions on an additional seven. The executive order, set to take effect on June 9, 2025, cites a range of concerns including terrorism, high visa overstay rates, and a lack of cooperation from foreign governments on immigration matters.
The comprehensive ban targets nations deemed to pose a heightened risk to U.S. security and immigration integrity. Among the fully banned countries are Afghanistan, Iran, Myanmar, and Somalia. Lawful permanent residents and certain visa holders will be exempt from the new restrictions.
The proclamation details specific concerns for each affected nation:
Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, and the Republic of the Congo are flagged for high student visa overstay rates, inadequate passport systems, and non-cooperation with deportation efforts.
Eritrea and Haiti are cited for lacking reliable law enforcement and refusing to repatriate their citizens.
Iran and Cuba are identified as state sponsors of terrorism.
Libya, Yemen, and Somalia are deemed unstable, lacking central governmental authority.
Venezuela and Turkmenistan are highlighted for poor immigration compliance.
The Trump administration indicated that the ban is not permanent and could be lifted if affected nations improve their cooperation with U.S. security and immigration requirements. This new policy echoes President Trump’s earlier travel restrictions implemented in 2017.
In a related development, the State Department has updated its Level 4 “Do Not Travel” advisory list, adding North Korea due to the severe risks of arrest, detention, and the absence of consular support for American citizens. Travel warnings also remain in effect for other countries, including Uganda and Mexico, primarily due to concerns about terrorism, crime, and civil unrest. The State Department continues to urge all American travelers to exercise heightened vigilance and stay thoroughly informed before undertaking any international travel.