These bans by Mali and Burkina Faso follow Niger’s decision to prohibit U.S. citizens as well, creating a region-wide ripple effect. Authorities in these countries argue that their policies are a direct response to U.S. decisions they view as discriminatory and harmful to mutual diplomatic relations. (Reddit)
2. Expanded U.S. Travel Restrictions Affecting 39 Countries
At the same time, the United States has significantly broadened its own travel restrictions, adding a large number of countries to its list of destinations whose citizens now face partial or full limits on entering the U.S.
- A December 16, 2025 Presidential Proclamation expanded the scope of the U.S. travel ban policies, now impacting nationals from 39 countries with either full visa suspensions or severe entry limits. (congress.gov)
- The new rules went into effect on January 1, 2026, and apply to people who are outside the United States and do not already hold a valid visa. (congress.gov)
What the U.S. Restrictions Mean
- Full entry suspensions target citizens of nations such as Afghanistan, Iran, Sudan, Yemen, and several others identified as having inadequate security screening or information-sharing systems. These travelers cannot obtain most immigrant or nonimmigrant visas. (Henley & Partners)
- Partial restrictions suspend visas like B-1/B-2 tourism/business visas, student visas (F/M), and exchange visitor visas (J) for an additional group of countries, including several in Africa, the Caribbean, and Latin America. (Henley & Partners)
Exceptions exist — such as for lawful permanent residents, dual nationals traveling on non-restricted passports, and certain event-related travel — but the overall impact remains significant for global mobility. (congress.gov)
3. Broader Visa Policy Changes
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