The Trump administration expands its immigration travel ban to 39 countries, restricting tourist, student, work visas, and even family-based green cards. Learn what this means for families, workers, and how immigration attorneys at Spar & Bernstein can help.
In a sweeping move that dramatically alters the landscape of U.S. immigration, the Trump administration has reimposed and expanded its travel ban to include 39 countries, blocking nearly every form of immigrant and non-immigrant visa, including green cards for spouses and children of U.S. citizens, tourist visas, student visas, and work visas. The new executive proclamation outlines both full and partial bans, creating a deeply complex and highly restrictive framework for those seeking entry into the United States.
The policy, though currently not affecting individuals already within the U.S., places a near-total freeze on new entries from the affected nations. It’s important to note that while visa processing may still occur, entry itself is blocked—highlighting the critical distinction between visa issuance and actual physical admission into the country.
According to the administration, the countries were not chosen arbitrarily. The bans are reportedly based on:
National security concerns, including suspected harboring of terrorist organizations.
Visa overstays, with countries like Laos reporting overstay rates of nearly 28%.
Weak passport and identity security infrastructure, as seen in cases like Turkmenistan and Antigua & Barbuda.
Citizenship-for-sale programs, where passports are issued without requiring actual residency, raising fraud concerns.
The administration also emphasized that these bans are not retroactive. Green card holders from banned countries may continue to travel freely. However, new applications for green cards from outside the U.S. are suspended, even for immediate relatives of U.S. citizens. Fiancé visas, typically considered a pathway to immigration, are being treated as immigrant visas and are therefore included in the ban.
Full Ban Countries: No immigrant or non-immigrant entries allowed. This includes all family-based green cards, tourist visas, work and student visas.
Partial Ban Countries: Some visa categories may still be valid, such as certain work-related visas, but others like student or tourist visas are barred.
Importantly, these bans do not affect:
Individuals currently inside the U.S. seeking adjustment of status.
Those extending or changing their non-immigrant status domestically.
Individuals who already possess valid green cards.
This means that if you are from a banned country but already inside the U.S., you should consult an immigration attorney immediately to file for adjustment of status, if eligible. Once you receive your green card, you may travel in and out of the U.S. without restriction—even if your country remains on the banned list.
Yes—and there’s precedent. Turkmenistan, which was under a full ban earlier this year, is now only partially banned. The administration cited cooperation and measurable progress in identity verification systems and data sharing as reasons for easing restrictions.
This shows that diplomatic engagement can yield real results. If a country is willing to “play ball” with the U.S. government, reforms can lead to a reclassification—or complete removal—from the ban list.
The critical questions moving forward are:
Will more countries comply with the Trump administration’s demands?
Is it politically viable—or even desirable—for these governments to do so?
This expanded travel ban, while severe, does not close all doors. At Spar & Bernstein, we are actively helping clients:
Navigate adjustment of status inside the U.S., which remains fully legal and accessible.
Explore waiver options, even though the waiver process is still unclear and may vary widely depending on country and category.
File motions for expedited review or humanitarian parole in appropriate cases.
Strategically time applications, extensions, and travel to ensure compliance and preserve immigration benefits.
We understand the real-life impact these policies have on families, students, workers, and dreamers. Our team is committed to delivering creative, strategic solutions—and fighting for every available path forward.
While this expansion marks a significant policy shift, it is not permanent. Political changes, administrative engagement, and advocacy can—and will—shape the future of these restrictions.
If you or your loved ones are affected by this ban, contact Spar & Bernstein today. Let us help you find your path forward.
