President Donald J. Trump has announced new restrictions on the entry of foreign nationals into the United States, citing ongoing national security threats and the need for enhanced vetting procedures. In a proclamation made on June 4, 2025, Trump emphasized the importance of protecting U.S. citizens from potential terrorist threats and public safety issues, echoing measures implemented during his previous administration.
The proclamation specifies that certain countries have been identified due to inadequate vetting and screening processes that could allow harmful individuals to enter the country. Nationals from twelve countries will face a total suspension on entry, including Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. These decisions stem from high visa overstay rates and failures by these countries to accept back their removable nationals, which heightens risks to national security.
Additionally, nationals from seven other nations, including Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela, will see partial restrictions. The administration has committed to reviewing ongoing measures to address the deficiencies identified and to engage with these countries to improve their information-sharing practices necessary for effective U.S. immigration vetting.
This action continues an ongoing government effort to ensure that individuals entering the United States do not pose risks linked to terrorism or other criminal activities, a concern accentuated by the global landscape of terrorism and crime. With this proclamation, the administration aims to safeguard its citizens while also working with foreign governments on enhancing their immigration protocols.
The new measures reflect a balancing act between national security imperatives and global diplomatic relations. Officials have indicated that assessments to either modify or lift these restrictions will occur every 180 days, allowing for a coordinated approach towards sustainable immigration policies. The hope is that through international collaboration, countries can enhance their capabilities to ensure that individuals admitted to the U.S. are thoroughly vetted, ultimately contributing to a safer environment for all Americans.