New travel restrictions could mean new issues for employers hiring foreign nationals. Our Immigration Team outlines the scope of the restrictions, key exceptions, and recommended actions.
- Entry into the U.S. is fully suspended for nationals from 12 countries and partially restricted for nationals from seven countries, with specific exemptions for certain categories
- Visas issued before June 9, 2025 remain valid, but affected individuals may face heightened scrutiny
- Employers should assess workforce exposure, evaluate exception eligibility, and plan for potential onboarding and travel disruptions
On June 4, 2025, President Trump imposed new restrictions on the entry of certain foreign nationals. These measures will be effective Monday, June 9, 2025.
Entry Restrictions
- Fully Restricted Countries. Entry into the U.S. is suspended for both immigrants and nonimmigrants from the following countries:
- Afghanistan
- Burma
- Chad
- Republic of the Congo
- Equatorial Guinea
- Eritrea
- Haiti
- Iran
- Libya
- Somalia
- Sudan
- Yemen
- Partially Restricted Countries. Nationals of these countries are subject to partial restrictions. Entry is suspended for immigrants and for nonimmigrants in the following categories: B-1/B-2, F, M, and J. Additionally, consular officers are directed to limit the validity of other nonimmigrant visas to the extent permitted by law.
- Burundi
- Cuba
- Laos
- Sierra Leone
- Togo
- Turkmenistan
- Venezuela
Implementation and Exceptions
The restrictions apply to foreign nationals who are outside the United States and do not hold a valid visa as of the effective date. The following categories are exempt:
- Lawful permanent residents (green card holders)
- Dual nationals traveling on a passport from a non-designated country
- Immediate relatives with valid immigrant visas and documented family relationships
- Adoptees
- Afghan Special Immigrant Visa holders
- Immigrant visa applicants from persecuted ethnic or religious minorities in Iran
- Certain nonimmigrant visa holders
- Individuals whose travel is deemed to be in the U.S. national interest
Importantly, visas issued before June 9, 2025 will remain valid and will not be revoked under the new rules. Additionally, the entry restrictions do not apply to individuals who have been granted asylum, admitted to the U.S. as refugees, or protected under the Convention Against Torture. This means that nationals from the designated countries who already hold valid visas as of June 9, 2025 are exempt from the travel ban. However, these individuals should anticipate heightened scrutiny during visa screening and at ports of entry and should plan accordingly.
Anticipated Impacts
- Limitations on Visa Issuance & Heightened Scrutiny. Nationals from fully restricted countries who do not qualify for an exception will no longer be eligible to receive U.S. visas. Nationals from partially restricted countries may still apply for certain visa categories; however, they should expect heightened scrutiny during the application process, which may result in an increased denial rate.
- Family Separation Risks. Family reunification efforts may be significantly affected. Immigrant visa issuance is now restricted for nationals of the designated countries unless the applicant qualifies as an immediate relative (spouse or child) of a U.S. citizen or lawful permanent resident. This means that non-immediate relatives, such as siblings or adult children, who are currently in the queue for immigrant visa appointments will no longer be eligible to receive visas for entry into the United States under the new restrictions.
- Legal Uncertainty. The restrictions may be subject to legal challenges, potentially affecting their enforcement.
Key Takeaways
- Assess Workforce Exposure. Identify employees who may be impacted based on nationality or travel plans.
- Evaluate Exception Eligibility. Determine whether employees qualify for any of the listed exemptions.
- Plan for Contingencies. Prepare for potential delays or disruptions in onboarding, assignments, or international travel.
The Administration may adjust these restrictions based on evolving foreign policy interests.
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