NEW DELHI : The Trump administration is reportedly in the final stages of implementing an extensive new travel restriction plan that could significantly affect travelers from 41 countries. The proposal classifies nations into three categories, each facing different levels of restrictions.
The policy, initially disclosed by The New York Times, has sparked widespread concern among prospective travelers and immigrants. Although still in draft form, it is expected to be finalized soon, stemming from an executive order signed by President Trump on January 20. The order directed the State Department to enforce the restrictions within 60 days, meaning the policy could take effect within the next week.
Under the proposed framework, the “red list” comprises Cuba, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, Yemen, Afghanistan, and Bhutan. Citizens from these nations would face an outright ban from entering the United States.
The “orange list” includes Russia, Pakistan, and Myanmar, where entry would be severely restricted. Travelers from these countries would be required to undergo in-person interviews before being considered for short-term, non-immigrant visas.
The “yellow list” consists primarily of African and Caribbean nations, which have been given 60 days to strengthen security measures. Failure to comply may result in their inclusion in the orange or red lists, imposing stricter limitations on travel.
Diplomatic officials and security analysts across multiple government departments, including the State Department and intelligence agencies, are currently assessing the draft. Their evaluations focus on verifying the accuracy of security concerns outlined for each country, as well as weighing potential diplomatic consequences of imposing such restrictions.
Trump’s initial travel ban, introduced during his first term, faced multiple legal challenges but was ultimately upheld by the United States Supreme Court. The policy was later rescinded by President Joe Biden, who condemned it as a “stain on our national conscience.” However, during his re-election campaign, Trump repeatedly pledged to reinstate and expand the ban.
Notably, some countries appearing on the red and orange lists were previously sanctioned under Trump’s earlier travel bans, while others are new additions. Many share common characteristics with previous restrictions—predominantly Muslim-majority, economically disadvantaged, or led by unstable governments. However, the inclusion of certain nations, such as Bhutan, has raised questions. The small South Asian country, situated between China and India—neither of which were included in the draft lists—faces an absolute entry ban under the proposal.
On his first day back in office for a second term, Trump issued an executive order reinstating travel restrictions, citing national security concerns. “We must safeguard our country from those who wish to harm us, exploit our immigration system, or spread hateful ideologies,” he stated.
The January order emphasised Trump’s intent to reintroduce the bans to prevent foreign nationals from entering the United States, if they were suspected of posing a security threat, promoting extremist views, or attempting to abuse immigration policies.
