The Trump administration has announced new entry restrictions on nationals from 20 additional countries, significantly widening the scope of U.S. travel limitations. With the latest move, the total number of countries facing full or partial travel bans has risen from 19 to 39.
Among the newly affected nations, Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, South Sudan and Syria have been placed under a full ban, barring most forms of entry into the United States. Partial restrictions have been imposed on several others, including Nigeria — one of the largest contributors of international students to U.S. colleges and universities. Other countries facing partial limits include Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Dominica, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Senegal, Tanzania, Tonga, Zambia and Zimbabwe.
In its proclamation issued on Tuesday, the White House said the expanded restrictions are aimed at strengthening national security. The administration stated that the measures are necessary in cases where the U.S. lacks sufficient information to properly assess potential risks, ensure cooperation from foreign governments, enforce immigration laws, and advance broader foreign policy and counterterrorism objectives.
According to NAFSA: Association of International Educators, the updated travel restrictions will take effect on January 1, 2026. Individuals who already hold valid U.S. visas will be exempt from the new rules.
NAFSA said the announcement was expected but criticized the decision, calling the policy counterproductive. In a statement, the organization argued that relying on broad travel bans undermines global engagement and sends a negative signal to international students, scholars and researchers.
“At a time when countries such as China, Canada, Germany and Japan are actively attracting global talent, these restrictions suggest the United States is turning away from valuable contributions,” the group said, warning that increased isolation could allow other nations to fill the gap left by reduced U.S. openness.
The expanded travel ban is likely to have significant implications for international education, immigration, and diplomatic relations as it comes into force next year.