The Trump administration is evaluating the possibility of implementing extensive travel restrictions for citizens of multiple countries, according to sources familiar with the matter and an internal memo reviewed by Reuters. The memo outlines a total of 41 countries divided into three categories, each facing varying levels of visa limitations.
The first category includes ten countries, among them Afghanistan, Iran, Syria, Cuba, and North Korea, which would be subjected to a complete suspension of visa issuance. The second category consists of five countries that would experience partial suspensions affecting tourist, student, and other immigrant visas, with certain exceptions. The third category involves 26 nations that could face a partial suspension of U.S. visa issuance unless their governments take steps to address specific deficiencies within 60 days, as stated in the memo.
A U.S. official, speaking on condition of anonymity, emphasized that the list could undergo modifications and had not yet received final approval from the administration, including U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio. This initiative echoes previous policies from Trump’s first term, particularly the travel restrictions imposed on several Muslim-majority nations, which were ultimately upheld by the Supreme Court in 2018 after multiple revisions.
An executive order issued on January 20 mandates stricter security screening for foreign nationals seeking entry into the United States to identify potential national security risks. The order directs several cabinet members to present a list by March 21 recommending countries for full or partial travel suspensions due to inadequate screening and vetting procedures.
This measure aligns with the broader immigration enforcement efforts that Trump initiated at the beginning of his second term. In an October 2023 speech, he outlined plans to impose restrictions on individuals from Gaza, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Yemen, and other locations deemed security risks.
The State Department has yet to provide a response to Reuters’ request for comment regarding the proposed restrictions.
