The Trump administration has announced sweeping changes to U.S. immigration policy, expanding entry restrictions to approximately 40 countries starting January 1, 2026. This marks the most significant revision to travel limitations since June 2025, when 19 nations faced similar measures following security concerns.
Under the new proclamation signed December 16, 2025, five additional countries – Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, South Sudan, and Syria – now face full entry restrictions. The policy also imposes new limitations on holders of Palestinian Authority travel documents and upgrades restrictions for Laos and Sierra Leone from partial to full bans.
Partial restrictions now apply to 20 countries, including new additions like Nigeria, Senegal, and Zimbabwe. The White House stated these measures address 'persistent deficiencies in foreign governments' security vetting systems,' particularly regarding information-sharing with U.S. authorities.
The policy revision follows heightened security debates after a November 2025 incident where an Afghan asylum seeker was implicated in a Washington, D.C. attack. Recent USCIS initiatives to re-examine green card holders from 19 previously restricted countries have drawn criticism from civil rights groups.
While administration officials emphasize national security priorities, immigration advocates warn the measures could strain diplomatic relations. The Washington Post notes this continues a pattern of immigration policy changes following security incidents, recalling similar measures after a 2025 Boulder, Colorado attack.
