Trump Issues Sweeping Immigration Proclamation, Barring Entry from 12 Nations and Tightening Rules on 7 Others
In a dramatic shift in U.S. immigration policy, former President Donald Trump signed a sweeping executive proclamation on June 4, 2025, instituting a near-total ban on entry for citizens from twelve nations and imposing new restrictions on seven more. Framed as a “targeted safeguard” based on data and security concerns, the move is being presented by the Trump team as a strategic measure—not a blanket ban.
Full Travel Ban for 12 Countries
The proclamation halts all entry into the U.S. for nationals of the following countries: Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. These countries were flagged for either failing to cooperate with U.S. immigration authorities, exhibiting high visa overstay rates, or posing heightened national security risks.
Each country was assessed for specific issues. Afghanistan, now governed by the Taliban, lacks passport authority and has a nearly 30% visa overstay rate among students and exchange visitors. Myanmar records even higher overstay rates—42% for student visa holders—and also refuses to repatriate citizens ordered deported. Chad came under scrutiny after almost half its visitors on short-term visas failed to return, which officials called a “clear violation” of immigration norms.
Other nations, such as Libya, Yemen, and Somalia, have fragmented governments or are in a state of civil unrest, making it impossible to verify travelers’ identities. Somalia was further designated a hub for terrorist activity, and U.S. military operations in Yemen are ongoing.
Equatorial Guinea had an alarming 70% overstay rate among student visa holders. Eritrea refuses to accept deported citizens or share criminal background information. Haiti was cited for its collapsed justice system and a 31% overstay rate among business travelers. Iran and Cuba—both designated as state sponsors of terrorism—were called out for obstructing deportations and refusing to work with U.S. law enforcement.
Partial Restrictions for 7 Nations
In addition to the full bans, new limitations were also placed on citizens of Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela. These partial restrictions may include limits on certain visa categories or additional vetting procedures.
Importantly, the administration clarified that these restrictions do not apply to lawful permanent residents, individuals with valid visas, or those granted exemptions for U.S. national interest.
Policy Rollout Set for June 9
To avoid the airport chaos that erupted after Trump’s 2017 travel ban, this new policy will take effect on Monday, June 9, at 12:01 a.m., allowing immigration officials and travelers a short adjustment period. Officials pledged improved communication and a more organized implementation to avoid confusion.
Updated State Department Advisories
Alongside the immigration crackdown, the U.S. State Department revised its global travel advisories. North Korea has now been elevated to a Level 4 “Do Not Travel” alert, emphasizing the extreme risk of detention and the U.S. government’s limited ability to help American citizens there. Travel to North Korea on a U.S. passport remains illegal without special permission.
The Level 4 list has now grown to 21 countries, including Russia, Ukraine, Syria, Iraq, and Venezuela. Nations like Mali, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic remain on the list due to ongoing terrorism and violence. Uganda, following the passage of its Anti-Homosexuality Act in April 2025, has also been flagged—prompting the U.S. to warn LGBTQ+ travelers of increased risks.
Travel Warnings by Region
Mexico’s travel advisory now varies by region. Colima, Guerrero, and Michoacán remain under “Do Not Travel” warnings due to cartel activity and high rates of kidnapping. However, states like Yucatán and Campeche are still considered relatively safe, though travelers are urged to stay vigilant, especially at night or in rural areas.
Mixed Reactions
While civil rights groups and immigration advocates have condemned the proclamation as excessive and discriminatory, the Trump administration defended the policy as a necessary response to today’s global instability and evolving security threats. Officials stated that countries seeking to lift restrictions must demonstrate serious improvements in border security, cooperation with U.S. enforcement, and tighter visa compliance.
Until then, the administration says, the United States will remain closed to those it deems untrustworthy or non-compliant.