Trump signs new travel ban order
U.S. President Donald Trump signed an executive order imposing sweeping travel restrictions aimed at protecting against what he described as foreign “terrorists” and other security threats. The measure, effective at 12:01 a.m. EDT on June 9, 2025, bans entry to U.S. nationals from 12 countries while partially restricting travelers from seven others.
The full entry ban applies to citizens of Afghanistan, Myanmar (Burma), Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. In addition, partial restrictions have been placed on nationals from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela. These partial restrictions include limitations on certain visa types, such as tourist and immigrant visas, and require enhanced security screenings and stricter documentation.
In a video statement from the White House, President Trump justified the executive order by citing national security concerns, highlighting a recent antisemitic attack in Boulder, Colorado, which was allegedly carried out by an Egyptian national who had overstayed his visa. Although Egypt is not designated under this order, the incident served as a catalyst to underscore the administration’s concerns regarding inadequate identity verification and high visa overstay rates in several countries.
Trump noted that the list of affected countries is subject to change based on improvements in the respective nations' security practices or if new threats emerge. The proclamation clarifies that any visas issued before the order’s effective date will remain valid. Exemptions will be made for lawful permanent residents, individuals holding valid visas, and participants in major international sporting events, including events such as the FIFA World Cup and the Olympic Games.
