President Donald Trump has announced a sweeping new travel ban affecting 19 countries, set to take effect at 12:01 a.m. ET on Monday, June 9, 2025. The proclamation, citing national security concerns, fully blocks entry from 12 nations and imposes partial restrictions on seven others. This move revives and expands upon the controversial travel policies from Trump’s first term.
New Travel Ban Alert: Trump Targets 19 Nations
| Takeaway | Stat |
|---|---|
| Countries Fully Banned | 12 nations, including Afghanistan and Iran |
| Countries Partially Restricted | 7 nations, including Cuba and Venezuela |
| Effective Date | June 9, 2025, at 12:01 a.m. ET |
| Legal Challenges Anticipated | Critics cite discrimination concerns |
The reinstatement and expansion of the travel ban mark a significant shift in U.S. immigration policy, with far-reaching implications for citizens of the affected countries. As legal challenges loom and diplomatic tensions rise, the global community watches closely to see how this policy unfolds.
What’s in the Ban?
The new travel ban introduces a three-tiered system of restrictions:
Full Entry Bans: Citizens from the following 12 countries are completely barred from entering the U.S.:
- Afghanistan
- Myanmar
- Chad
- Republic of the Congo
- Equatorial Guinea
- Eritrea
- Haiti
- Iran
- Libya
- Somalia
- Sudan
- Yemen
Partial Restrictions: Seven countries face heightened restrictions, affecting immigrants and holders of selected temporary visas such as B-1, B-2, F, M, and J categories:
- Burundi
- Cuba
- Laos
- Sierra Leone
- Togo
- Turkmenistan
- Venezuela
Exemptions: The proclamation includes several exceptions, permitting entry for U.S. lawful permanent residents, dual nationals, diplomats, certain athletes, and individuals holding special immigrant visas, such as persecuted minorities from Iran and Afghan special visa applicants. The order does not revoke existing visas issued before June 9.
Why Now?
The administration linked the ban to a recent attack in Boulder, Colorado, where an Egyptian national overstayed a tourist visa and allegedly carried out an antisemitic firebombing. Although Egypt is not on the restricted list, officials argue the incident underscores the need for stricter vetting.
Reactions and Criticism
Critics, including immigrant rights groups and lawmakers, have condemned the move as discriminatory and politically motivated, comparing it to Trump’s earlier controversial “Muslim Ban.” Legal experts anticipate new lawsuits challenging the ban, although the 2018 Supreme Court decision upholding a previous version could bolster the administration’s legal standing.
What This Means for You
If you’re a citizen of one of the affected countries:
- Check Your Visa Status: If you already have a valid visa or are a lawful permanent resident, the ban may not apply to you.
- Stay Informed: Monitor updates from the U.S. Department of State and consult with immigration attorneys to understand how the ban may impact your specific situation.
- Prepare for Changes: If you’re planning to apply for a visa or travel to the U.S., be aware of the new restrictions and plan accordingly.
