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US President Donald Trump imposes stricter travel bans on 39 countries, including full restrictions for 20 nations and Palestinians. Tourists and immigrants from these nations face severe entry challenges starting January 2026, altering global travel dynamics.
US President Donald Trump (Source: Internet)
New Delhi: US President Donald Trump has further tightened immigration policies in the United States. Recently, the Trump administration imposed a complete travel ban on seven more countries and Palestinian citizens. In addition, partial entry restrictions on 15 countries have been made even stricter. Following these measures, the number of countries facing US travel restrictions has now reached 39.
Under the new order, citizens of 20 entities (19 countries and the Palestinian territories) will face an almost complete ban on entering the United States. This includes those applying for tourist, work, student, or immigrant visas. Obtaining a US visa will become virtually impossible for citizens of these countries.
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Countries under a complete ban include: Afghanistan, Iran, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, Sudan, Libya, Haiti, Eritrea, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Burkina Faso, Laos, Mali, Niger, Sierra Leone, South Sudan, Palestinian Territories
From January 1, 2026, even applicants with valid documents, including hotel bookings or sponsorship, will not receive direct entry unless they already possess a valid US visa or Green Card.
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In addition to the complete ban, the US has imposed partial restrictions on 19 countries. Citizens of these countries cannot obtain immigrant visas. However, applications for tourist, business, and student visas can still be made, but under strict scrutiny and questioning.
Newly added countries include: Nigeria, Ghana, Tanzania, Senegal, Angola, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Malawi
Previously on the list: Cuba, Venezuela, Burundi, Togo
India is not included in this list of restricted countries. Therefore, there are no direct restrictions on Indian passport holders traveling to the US. However, if an Indian citizen has recently traveled to a restricted country, they may face additional security checks and questioning during the visa application process.
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Furthermore, citizens of restricted countries will not be able to obtain new tourist visas for the United States starting January 1, 2026. Even if they have sufficient funds or hotel bookings, they will not be granted entry into the US.
This new decision has made US travel policy significantly stricter and more restrictive than before.
