WASHINGTON — The Trump administration unveiled a sweeping new travel ban on June 4, 2025, imposing entry restrictions on citizens from several countries while outlining specific exemption categories.

Two-Tiered Restrictions

The executive order establishes two distinct categories:

  • Full travel ban: Applies to all nationals from 12 designated countries
  • Conditional restrictions: Additional screening requirements for certain travelers

Nations Under Full Ban

  • Afghanistan
  • Myanmar
  • Chad
  • Congo Republic
  • Equatorial Guinea
  • Eritrea
  • Haiti
  • Iran
  • Libya
  • Somalia
  • Sudan
  • Yemen

Exemption Categories

The administration specified these exempt groups who may still enter despite the ban:

  • Valid visa holders as of June 9, 2025
  • Lawful permanent residents (green card holders)
  • Dual nationals traveling on non-banned country passports
  • Immediate family of U.S. citizens (spouses, children, parents)
  • Certain Afghan special immigrant visa holders
  • Government-affiliated special immigrants
  • Diplomatic and official visa holders
  • Religious/minority groups from Iran
  • International athletes and support staff

Critical Warning: Nationals from banned countries who depart the U.S. risk being barred from re-entry. Even exempt individuals (including green card holders) may face heightened scrutiny at ports of entry. Non-citizens who travel to these nations — regardless of nationality — should expect additional security screening.

Affected Visa Categories

The ban specifically targets these visa types for entry denial:

  • Family-based visas (F2A, F2B)
  • Diversity Visa lottery winners
  • Employment visas (H, L, O categories)
  • Student/exchange visas (F, M, J)
  • Tourist/business visas (B)
  • Fiancé visas (K-1)

Refugee Status Implications

While asylum seekers and refugees weren't explicitly named in the ban, administration officials confirmed these groups would face similar restrictions — effectively blocking entry even for refugees with approved court cases.

Policy Review Timeline

The restrictions will undergo formal reviews at 90-day and 180-day intervals, with potential modifications expected. Officials emphasized the evolving nature of immigration enforcement under the current administration.

Travel Advisory

Immigration attorneys strongly caution non-citizens to:

  • Consult legal counsel before international travel
  • Avoid travel if lacking legal status
  • Understand that pending applications may be jeopardized by departure
  • Prepare for possible entry denial upon return

Safe Travel Recommendations

For those who must travel, experts recommend these precautions:

  1. Document verification: Ensure passports/visas are current with matching airline ticket names
  2. REAL ID compliance: Domestic flights require approved identification
  3. Essential documents: Carry critical paperwork (passports, application receipts, attorney contacts) in carry-on luggage
  4. Contingency planning: Share itineraries with trusted contacts and establish emergency protocols
  5. Digital security: Limit personal data on devices subject to CBP inspection
  6. Policy monitoring: Stay informed about rapid regulatory changes

The administration maintains these measures are necessary for national security, while critics argue they disproportionately affect vulnerable populations. Travelers are advised to monitor official government channels for updates.