What we know now about President Trump’s new travel ban
How will President Trump’s travel ban or 20 countries’ restrictions affect you? This is what we know now.
- New travel restrictions from the Trump administration came into effect Monday, affecting nearly 20 countries.
- The restrictions add restrictions on visas and entry, causing uncertainty for travelers at US airports.
- Many travelers were unaware of the changes in policy.
NEW YORK – A new round of travel restrictions from the Trump administration quietly came into effect Monday, catching many travelers off guard, causing fresh anxiety about immigrants and visitors at U.S. airports.
At John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York, passengers arriving at Terminal 4 and their loved ones waiting for their greetings seemed unaware of the change in policy.
Approximately 12 people in the terminal’s arrival area said USA Today is unfamiliar with the updated travel ban.
The updated restrictions are primarily targeting citizens from the country’s choice list, but critics say the move will send a wider, dreadful message to immigrants and foreign visitors.
“It’s scary. It makes me worried. It affects my decision to go home to visit my family,” said 33-year-old Randy Wikakusana, who has lived in the United States for about three years.
Indonesian citizen Wikakusana is preparing to return home to renew his visa later this month, but said he is increasingly uncertain about what is waiting for him when he comes back to the US.
There were no visible signs or announcements at the terminal warning travelers of the new rules. The administration said the change was intended to “fight terrorism” and “strengthen our borders.”
But for travelers like Wicaksana, the law feels increasingly unpredictable.
Which citizens are prohibited from entering the United States?
The complete travel ban applies to citizens of the following 12 countries:
- Afghanistan
- Burma (Myanmar)
- Chad
- Republic of the Congo
- Equatorial Guinea
- Eritrea
- Haiti
- Iran
- Libya
- Somalia
- Sudan
- Yemen
Additionally, partial restrictions will be imposed on the following citizens:
- Burundi
- Cuba
- Laos
- Sierra Leone
- Take home
- Turkmenistan
- Venezuela
What happens to travelers from these countries when they arrive at the airport?
Travelers from a totally banned country attempting to enter the United States after the ban comes into effect could be denied boarding by airlines or denied when they arrive in the United States.
What happens to people who already have tickets?
Individuals from affected countries who have already purchased tickets to travel to the United States should consult with the airline or the nearest US embassy or consulate. Although there are a few exceptions, most travelers in countries that are completely banned are expected to be denied entry. People in partially restricted countries may be allowed to travel subject to additional screenings and requirements.
Travelers are encouraged to review the latest guidance from the US Department of State and consult with an immigration lawyer if they are concerned about their eligibility to enter the US under the new declaration.
Zach Wichter is a travel journalist and writes the USA Today Cruising Advanced Column. He is based in New York and can be contacted at zwichter@usatoday.com.