President Donald Trump signed a proclamation on June 4, 2025, banning entry to nationals from 12 countries and placing partial restrictions on seven others due to national security concerns. The administration called the order “country-specific” and based on each nation’s “deficiencies in sharing information and immigration enforcement.”
The full ban applies to countries like Afghanistan, Iran, Somalia, and Haiti—cited for issues like high visa overstay rates, terrorism links, or lack of document integrity. For example, “Afghanistan lacks a functional passport authority,” and Eritrea refuses to repatriate deportees.Partial restrictions affect countries such as Cuba, Laos, and Venezuela, which show similar problems. “The proclamation provides exceptions” for certain visa holders and permanent residents.
The ban takes effect June 9, 2025. Officials say it may be lifted if affected nations improve cooperation.
Separately, the U.S. added North Korea to its “Do Not Travel” list, warning of “arrest, long-term detention, and the threat of wrongful detention.”
Warnings were also updated for Uganda and Mexico. In Uganda, travelers face threats from violent crime and anti-LGBTQ+ laws. In Mexico, six states remain under “Do Not Travel” orders due to cartel violence and kidnappings. The State Department urges travelers to review advisories by region.
