President Donald Trump is considering implementing a new travel ban that could affect citizens from up to 43 countries, according to reports.
During his previous presidency, Trump issued three executive orders that became known as the “Muslim ban,” restricting travel from several Muslim-majority nations, including Iran, Iraq, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Syria. President Joe Biden lifted these restrictions upon taking office in January 2021. However, Trump has long sought to expand the policy, and the latest proposal includes a broader list of countries facing varying levels of travel restrictions.
According to reports, 11 countries—Afghanistan, Bhutan, Cuba, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen—are on a “red” list, meaning all travel from these nations would be entirely banned. Other nations, including Belarus, Haiti, and Russia, are categorized on the “orange” list, with sharply restricted visa access. Meanwhile, countries such as Chad, Dominica, and Liberia fall under the “yellow” list, where applicants will have 60 days to address concerns raised in their visa applications.
Russia’s inclusion on the restricted list could complicate Trump’s diplomatic stance, as it would allow wealthy Russians to visit while barring many others, including those on immigrant and tourist visas. All Russian citizens would also be required to undergo in-person interviews during the visa process.
Trump previously proposed “strong ideological screening” for immigrants at a rally in October 2023, stating that anyone supporting radical Islamic extremism, Hamas, the abolition of Israel, or communist and fascist ideologies would be disqualified from entering the U.S. He also pledged to ban refugees from Gaza.
Following his inauguration, Trump issued an executive order to reinstate travel bans aimed at protecting Americans from individuals who might pose security threats or exploit immigration laws. The order directed the State Department to review and identify countries with inadequate screening processes, with a report due within 60 days.
