A new travel ban signed by United States President Donald Trump officially came into effect on Monday, 9 June. The directive introduces wide-ranging entry restrictions for nationals from nearly 20 countries, reshaping the country’s approach to immigration and border control.
The measure fully bars entry for citizens from 12 nations. These include Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo-Brazzaville, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. In addition, individuals from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela will face partial entry restrictions.
According to official sources, the new policy aims to strengthen national security and prevent individuals deemed to pose a potential threat from entering the United States. This is the second time President Trump has introduced such a ban, following a similar measure in 2017 that triggered widespread legal challenges and public protests.
While the order is extensive, it does allow for several exemptions. Lawful permanent residents, immediate family members of US citizens who hold immigrant visas, and US government employees with Special Immigrant Visas are not affected. The exemptions also apply to Afghan nationals with Special Immigrant Visas, children being adopted by American citizens, and dual nationals who are not travelling with a passport from one of the restricted countries.
Other individuals permitted to enter include holders of specific non-immigrant visas and those granted immigrant visas due to religious or ethnic persecution in Iran. Athletes, coaches, and support staff attending major sporting events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles are also exempt.
The decision is expected to spark further debate over US immigration policy and its impact on international relations and human rights.
