New U.S. Travel Ban Starts January 1, 2026: What You Need to Know

Last Updated: December 17, 2025.

‍

President Trump has announced a new and expanded U.S. travel ban that will start on January 1, 2026. This new order affects nationals of 39 countries and people traveling with Palestinian Authority-issued travel documents.

Below is a clear breakdown of what this means, who is affected, and who is not.

‍

When Does the New Travel Ban Start?

The new travel ban goes into effect at 12:01 a.m. Eastern Time on January 1, 2026. No visas issued before that date will be canceled because of this ban.

‍

Who Is Affected by the Travel Ban?

The travel ban mainly affects people who:

• Are outside the United States on January 1, 2026; and
• Do not have a valid visa on January 1, 2026.

If you meet both of these conditions and are from one of the countries listed, you may not be able to get a new visa. Individuals from the countries listed who have valid visas may continue to use those visas for travel, however, such individuals may experience enhanced screening at ports of entry. 

Please note that President Trump's proclamation exempts individuals who have a valid visa as of January 1, 2026, from this new version of the travel ban. Some leading law firms say this suggests that such individuals should be able to apply for new visas in the same or a different category after January 1, 2026. Additionally, based on how similar bans were interpreted during the first Trump Administration, it is possible that those physically present in the United States on January 1, 2026, should be exempt from this policy and may be able to apply for a new visa in the same or a different category after January 1, 2026. However, it is not known whether individuals in either of these situations would be able to obtain new visas, and it is recommended that those who are impacted exercise caution when planning international travel. 

‍

Countries with Full Visa Restrictions

Nationals of the following countries cannot receive any immigrant or nonimmigrant visas under the new ban:

‍

Countries with Partial Visa Restrictions

For nationals of the following countries:

• Immigrant visas are suspended, and
• Visitor, student, and exchange visas (B, F, M, and J visas) are also suspended

Some work visas (like H-1B or L-1) may still be issued, but the U.S. government may limit how long those visas are valid—sometimes to just three months and one entry.

‍

Special Rule for Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is the only country with fewer restrictions than before:

• Nonimmigrant visas are allowed, including tourist and student visas
• Immigrant visas are still suspended, unless an exception applies

Who Is NOT Affected by the Travel Ban?

You are not affected by the ban if you fall into one of these groups:

• You are inside the U.S. on January 1, 2026
• You have a valid U.S. visa on January 1, 2026
• You are a U.S. green card holder
• You are a dual citizen and travel on a passport from a non-banned country
• You are a diplomat or government official traveling on certain government visas
• You qualify for a Special Immigrant Visa as a U.S. government employee
• You are an athlete or member of an athletic team, including coaches, those performing a necessary support role, and immediate relatives, traveling for the World Cup, Olympics, or other major sporting event as determined by the Secretary of State
• You qualify for a national interest exception (these are expected to be very rare)

Asylum seekers and refugees are also not affected, and people can still apply for asylum or protection under international law. However, keep in mind that USCIS has paused making decisions on asylum cases under another policy change that was put in place earlier this month. 

‍

USCIS Application Delays May Happen

As discussed in a previous article, USCIS has already paused many immigration applications for people from travel-ban countries. This includes people born in a banned country, even if they are citizens of another country.

This means some cases may be delayed or put on hold.

‍

What Can You Do Now?

If you or a family member may be affected:

• Check whether your country is on the list
• If possible, considering returning to the U.S. before January 1, 2026
• Be careful about international travel after that date
• Get legal help reviewing your options before making travel or visa plans

For those affected by these changes, we know this must be a stressful and overwhelming time. Please rest assured that SimpleCitizen will continue to share updates as more details become available. We’re happy you’re here!

This is legal information. Nothing in this blog post should be interpreted as legal advice. For legal advice specific to your immigration situation consult with a licensed immigration attorney. 

‍