United States will stop issuing visas to nationals of 19 countries…
The United States will stop issuing visas to nationals of 19 nations starting at 12:01 a.m. EDT july, 2025, in a major step to strengthen national security. The purpose of this new Presidential Proclamation is to safeguard national security and combat external terrorist threats. This change may significantly affect your travel plans if you are from one of these countries and intend to visit the United States.
The Nations Impacted by the United States’ Visa Prohibition
Citizens of the following nations have had their visas completely suspended by the United States:
Congo’s Republic
Myanmar, or Burma
Chad
Afghanistan
Iran
Guinea in the Equatoria
Sudan
Haiti
Eritrea
Libya
Yemen
The Somalia
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With very few exceptions, citizens of these countries are prohibited from obtaining either an immigrant or nonimmigrant visa.
Visa Suspension in Part
Citizens from this nations: are subject to a partial visa suspension.
Laos
Cuba
Burundi
The Turkmenistan
Togo
Sierra Leone
Venezuela
Unless they are eligible for specific exemptions, applicants from these nations are subject to limitations on tourist (B-1/B-2) and student/exchange (F, M, J) visas as well as all immigrant visas.
Who Can Avoid Having Their Visas Suspended?
Under some circumstances, you can still be eligible for a visa even if you are from one of the impacted nations. Among the exclusions are:
US citizens’ immediate family members (spouses, kids, parents)
Adoption cases involving citizens of the United States
visas for immigrants from oppressed ethnic or religious minorities, especially in Iran
Special Immigrant Visas for Afghans (SIVs)
Employees of the US government who qualify under SIV requirements
Participants in particular major international athletic competitions
Dual nationals from a non-suspended nation who have a valid passport
Lawful Permanent Residents (those with a green card)
Furthermore, U.S. officials are free to make exceptions for national interests—including humanitarian ones—on an as-needed basis.
What Happens If You Have a Visa Already?
This new suspension does not affect anyone who have a valid visa as of June 9, 2025. The prohibition is only applicable to those who are:
Away from the United States on or after June 9
Absent a current U.S. visa
There will be no retroactive revocation of your current visa.
Can After June 9, 2025, You Still Apply for a U.S. Visa?
Yes, you are still able to set up an interview and apply for a visa. But be advised that under the new proclamation, you may be considered ineligible for issue or admission.
In conclusion
In an effort to improve national security, the impending visa suspension marks a significant change in U.S. immigration policy. Keep yourself updated on your alternatives and exemptions if you are from one of the impacted nations. Navigating your trip plans to the United States will require an understanding of these new laws.
