US considers adding 36 nations to its expanded travel ban list

Thursday 19 June 2025 - 09:50

By: Dakir Madiha

US considers adding 36 nations to its expanded travel ban list

The United States is preparing to extend its controversial travel ban to include 36 additional countries, many from Africa and the Arab world, according to an internal State Department communication. These nations have 60 days to address US concerns or risk full or partial restrictions on their citizens entering the country.

Expanding the travel ban

The proposed expansion follows a proclamation signed by US President Donald Trump banning citizens from 12 nations, citing national security concerns. A diplomatic cable signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and reviewed by Reuters outlined the administration’s plan to target countries deemed non-compliant with US immigration policies and security benchmarks.

The countries identified reportedly failed to cooperate with deportation orders or address issues related to visa overstays. Some individuals flagged for removal were allegedly linked to terrorism or engaged in anti-American or anti-Semitic activities, according to the report.

A senior State Department official emphasized the need to protect US national security through stricter visa policies. “The Department of State is committed to upholding the highest standards of national security and public safety,” the official said, adding that policies are continually reassessed to ensure the safety of both Americans and foreigners traveling to the US.

Countries at risk

Among the 36 countries under scrutiny are Egypt, Angola, Ghana, Nigeria, Senegal, Ethiopia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, and Côte d’Ivoire. These nations must meet specific US requirements within 60 days to avoid being added to the travel ban list.

The current travel ban already affects 12 countries, including Iran, Libya, Somalia, Yemen, and Sudan. Several others, such as Cuba, Venezuela, and Sierra Leone, face partial restrictions.

Broader implications

Critics view the policy as discriminatory and disproportionately targeting nations in the Global South. Human rights groups have expressed concern that the ban may exacerbate humanitarian challenges for affected countries and their citizens.

The proposal underscores the Trump administration’s hardline stance on immigration, which continues to generate backlash both domestically and internationally. With the addition of these 36 nations, the travel restrictions could further deepen diplomatic tensions between the US and countries deemed non-compliant.