On December 19, 2025, the U.S. Department of State announced the implementation details for Presidential Proclamation 10998, which significantly expands travel restrictions to the United States. Effective January 1, 2026, at 12:01 AM EST, the U.S. will fully or partially suspend visa issuance to nationals of 39 countries and individuals using travel documents issued by the Palestinian Authority. This represents a major expansion from the June 2025 Proclamation 10949, which restricted 19 countries. The new proclamation adds 20 countries to the list and modifies existing restrictions. Nineteen countries face full visa suspensions for both immigrant and nonimmigrant visas, while another 19 countries face partial suspensions affecting B-1/B-2 visitor visas, F/M/J student and exchange visitor visas, and all immigrant visas. Critically, the proclamation eliminates previous exceptions for immediate family immigrant visas, adoption visas, and Afghan Special Immigrant Visas. Foreign nationals outside the U.S. who do not hold a valid visa as of January 1, 2026, will be subject to these restrictions. This is a major "immigration news 2025" development and a sweeping "policy change" with significant "visa updates" affecting millions worldwide.
State Department Implements Expanded Travel Ban Effective January 1, 2026
The State Department will implement an expanded travel ban on January 1, 2026, affecting 39 countries and eliminating key visa exceptions.
What This Means for You:
- Key Point 1: Starting January 1, 2026, nationals of 39 countries will face full or partial visa suspensions, with limited exceptions.
- Who Should Be Concerned: Nationals of the affected countries, their family members in the U.S., and employers who hire workers from these countries.
- Timeline for Action: The restrictions take effect January 1, 2026. Valid visas issued before this date will not be revoked.
- Next Steps: Affected individuals should consult with an immigration attorney immediately to assess their options. Those with pending visa applications should monitor official announcements and consider whether they qualify for any exceptions. U.S. citizens with family members in affected countries should explore all available immigration pathways before the deadline.
Source: Travel.state.gov