The U.S. Travel Ban: What You Need to Know

Understanding the New U.S. Travel Ban

For many immigrants, the dream of coming to the U.S. is built on hope, opportunity, and family. But a proposed new travel ban could make that dream much harder to achieve. If you or a loved one are from one of the affected countries, understanding your rights and options is more important than ever.

The Trump administration has proposed a new U.S. travel ban that could have major consequences for immigrants, visa holders, and green card applicants. This expansion would restrict entry from up to 43 countries, potentially affecting thousands of individuals and families.

Important: This Ban Is Not Yet in Effect

• The proposed travel ban is still under consideration and has NOT been officially implemented.
• Details such as the list of affected countries and specific restrictions are subject to change.
• If implemented, it could create major roadblocks for immigrants trying to enter or stay in the U.S.

Because immigration policies can shift quickly and unexpectedly, staying informed and seeking legal guidance as soon as possible is critical.

Which Countries Are Affected?

The proposed travel ban introduces a tiered system that categorizes countries based on the level of restriction:

Full Visa Suspension (Red List)

If your country is on this list, you will not be allowed to enter the U.S. under any circumstances, except in rare cases such as diplomatic visas or emergency humanitarian waivers. This means:

• All visa applications from these countries will be denied.
• Increased scrutiny for green card holders - Lawful permanent residents may face challenges at U.S. ports of entry.
• Family reunification and student visas will be effectively blocked.

Countries Facing Full Travel Suspension

• Afghanistan
• Bhutan
• Cuba
• Iran
• Libya
• North Korea
• Somalia
• Sudan
• Syria
• Venezuela
• Yemen

These countries have been cited for security concerns, though the ban’s critics argue that it disproportionately impacts refugees, asylum seekers, and family reunification cases.

Partial Visa Suspension (Orange List)

If your country is on this list, you may still apply for a visa, but additional barriers will be in place.‍

• In-person interviews required for all visa categories.
• Higher scrutiny for work visas, student visas, and green card applicants.
• Expect much longer processing times, delays, and possible denials.

Countries Under Partial Visa Suspension:

• Belarus
• Eritrea
• Haiti
• Laos
• Myanmar
• Pakistan
• Russia
• Sierra Leone
• South Sudan
• Turkmenistan

Probationary Period (Yellow List)

If your country is on this list, you may still apply for a visa, but your country must meet U.S. security standards within 60 days.

• U.S. immigration officers may increase background checks for visa applicants.
• The country must meet U.S. security and information-sharing requirements, or it may be moved to the Orange List(restrictions) or Red List (full ban).
• If you are applying for a visa from one of these countries, apply as soon as possible before additional restrictions are put in place.

Countries On The Probationary Period List:

• Algeria
• Angola
• Bangladesh
• Burkina Faso
• Cameroon
• Chad
• Democratic Republic of Congo
• Djibouti
• Egypt
• Ethiopia
• Gambia
• Guinea
• Indonesia
• Kazakhstan
• Kenya
• Kuwait
• Lebanon
• Mali
• Morocco
• Niger
• Nigeria
• Uzbekistan

How Does The Travel Ban Affect Immigrants, Visa Holders, and Green Card Applicants?

If you or your family are from an affected country, here’s what you should expect:

Visa Denials and Revocations – If you are from a Red List country, you will not be granted a visa at all. If you are from an Orange or Yellow List country, your application may be delayed or denied.

Longer Processing Times – If your country is on the Orange List, you should expect additional security checks and longer wait times before your visa or green card is approved.

Risk of Border Detention – Even if you have a valid visa or green card, you could be subject to additional questioning or temporary detainment when entering the U.S.

Family Separation Risks – Immigrants waiting for family-based visas may face months or even years of additional delays.

Work & Study Visas in Jeopardy – Many students and professionals could face denials or find their status uncertain.

Refugee & Asylum Processing Will Be Delayed – Those fleeing violence or persecution may find their asylum cases slowed down or rejected outright.

What You Can Do If You’re Affected By The Travel Ban

If you are from one of the listed countries or think you may be impacted by the travel ban, take these steps to protect yourself:

1. Stay Informed – Follow official updates from U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) and the Department of State for policy changes.
2. Avoid International Travel – If you are in the U.S. and from an affected country, consider postponing any non-essential travel to avoid re-entry issues.
3. Consult an Immigration Attorney – Seek legal advice from experienced immigration lawyers to understand your rights and potential pathways for staying in the U.S.
4. Prepare Documentation – Ensure your paperwork (passports, visas, permanent resident cards) is up to date and that you have copies of all necessary documents.

How Rozas Immigration Can Help

If you or your loved ones are affected by these developments, it’s crucial to seek legal guidance. At Rozas, we are committed to protecting your rights and navigating you through these uncertain times. Our team of experienced immigration attorneys is here to:

• Provide legal guidance on visas, asylum applications, and green card renewals.
• Advocate for your rights if you face discrimination or unfair detainment.
• Help you explore alternatives if you are impacted by the travel ban.

Contact us today for a free consultation. Call now to discuss your situation and explore your options.

Let us fight for your future.