WASHINGTON: Travel restrictions for entry into the United States have been expanded after a new decision by President Donald Trump. The move adds citizens from seven more countries to a full travel ban. The decision has made travel to the US more difficult for many people.
The White House said the president signed a new proclamation on Tuesday. Officials said the goal is to strengthen border security. They cited weak screening systems and poor information sharing in affected countries. According to the administration, these gaps pose risks to US national security.
Under the expanded order, citizens of Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, South Sudan, and Syria are now fully barred. The ban also applies to individuals holding travel documents issued by the Palestinian Authority. These Travel restrictions apply to both immigrants and non-immigrants. Tourists, students, and business travelers are all affected.
The policy also tightens rules for Laos and Sierra Leone. Both countries were previously under partial limits. They have now been moved to a full travel ban. The new measures are set to take effect on January 1.
The decision has drawn attention due to recent US engagement with Syria. Weeks earlier, Trump had expressed support for Syria’s stability after talks with Syrian leader Ahmed al-Sharaa. His rise followed the removal of longtime ruler Bashar al-Assad. Sharaa has since sought international support to end Syria’s isolation.
That outreach quickly stalled after a deadly attack in Syria. Two US Army soldiers and a civilian interpreter were killed. The US military blamed a suspected Islamic State militant. Trump condemned the attack and warned of strong retaliation in a post on Truth Social.
US officials said Syria’s inclusion is based on high visa overstay rates. They also cited weak state institutions. According to the White House, Syria lacks reliable systems for secure passports and civil documents. This, they said, makes proper vetting difficult despite security coordination.
The expanded Travel restrictions build on earlier bans imposed in June. At that time, Trump blocked entry from 12 countries and placed limits on seven others. Those measures remain active.
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The administration has also placed partial entry limits on 15 more countries, including Nigeria. Since returning to office, Trump has made immigration enforcement a priority. Travel restrictions now remain a central part of his broader border and security agenda.
