We “actively” start revoking visas for Chinese students
The US will begin “actively” revoking visas for Chinese students, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
President Donald Trump signed a drastic new travel declaration on Wednesday, citing national security concerns, banning or restricting entry from nearly 20 countries.
The ban bans travel to the United States for foreigners from Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.
Trump has issued travel halts in Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and the Venezuelan Nationals.
The White House stressed that the ban targets countries with “high visa overreach rates” and that there is a “sufficient screening and screening.”
Trump’s controversial 2017 “Muslim ban” has similarities, targeting several large majority of countries and facing widespread protests and legal challenges. Former President Joe Biden, a Democrat who served following Trump’s first term, repealed the ban in 2021, calling it “the stain of our people’s conscience.”
This latest ban includes exceptions for legal permanent residents, current visa holders, and certain visa categories and “individuals who are useful in the national interests of the country,” but these qualifications are not specified.
What should international travelers know?
The impact on international travelers is diverse. Tourism, workplaces and student visa applicants in affected countries may face delays or denials. Those already in the US may still be able to renew their visas, but re-entry can be complicated.
The move fulfilled one of Trump’s pledges in 2024 campaign, following the recent anti-Semitic attacks in Colorado, and the president stated in the True Society, “and yet another example of why we must keep our borders safe and hire illegal anti-American extremists from our hometown.”
Travelers should consult the US Department of State website or immigration attorney for the latest guidance, particularly if they have origins or family members in any of the listed countries.
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
When will the travel ban begin?
Travel restrictions will come into effect at 12:01am on Monday, June 9, 2025, according to a report by NBC News.
What happens to travelers from these countries when they arrive at the airport?
Travelers from a completely banned country attempting to enter the United States after the ban comes into effect could be denied airline boarding or denied upon arrival 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.
Contribution: Reuters
