Trump’s New Travel Ban Overhauls Entry Rules for 12 Nations
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June 5, 2025 — President Donald Trump has enacted a sweeping new executive order that bars entry into the United States for citizens of 12 countries, starting June 9. The administration says the measure is designed to enhance national security by tightening visa restrictions on nations considered high risk.
Complete Ban: Which Countries Are Affected?
The executive order enforces a full travel ban on nationals from these 12 countries:
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Afghanistan
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Burma (Myanmar)
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Chad
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Republic of the Congo
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Equatorial Guinea
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Eritrea
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Haiti
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Iran
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Libya
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Somalia
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Sudan
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Yemen
Partial Visa Restrictions for Several More Countries
In addition to the full ban, partial visa limitations will apply to select countries, affecting tourist and immigrant visa issuance. The affected nations are:
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Burundi
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Cuba
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Laos
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Sierra Leone
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Togo
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Turkmenistan
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Venezuela
Rationale Behind the Ban: National Security at the Forefront
The Trump administration cites concerns over inadequate vetting procedures, high rates of visa overstays, and threats linked to terrorism or state-sponsored terrorism emanating from these regions. Recent events involving illegal immigration and security breaches have been emphasized as justification for the tightened restrictions.
Strong Opposition and Legal Battles Anticipated
The ban has drawn sharp criticism from immigration advocates and civil rights groups, who describe it as discriminatory and lacking transparency. Many compare it to the 2017 travel ban, which faced multiple legal challenges. Critics warn the policy will impose severe hardships on affected families and individuals.
What Lies Ahead?
With the ban set to begin in just days, uncertainty grows for travelers, immigrants, and diplomatic relations. Legal experts expect court challenges, while those impacted are advised to seek guidance from immigration authorities regarding their travel and visa status.
This latest policy represents a major and contentious shift in U.S. immigration strategy, poised to fuel political debate and legal scrutiny in the coming weeks.
