U.S. Travel Ban Update: 12 Countries Restricted
(June 5, 2025)
The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) confirmed updates to its travel restrictions today, maintaining entry limitations for citizens of 12 nations. While exemptions exist, understanding the latest rules is critical for affected travelers and families. Here’s the concise breakdown:
🔴 The 12 Restricted Countries (as of June 5, 2025)
- 1. Iran
- 2. Syria
- 3. Yemen
- 4. Libya
- 5. Somalia
- 6. North Korea
- 7. Venezuela
- 8. Eritrea
- 9. Nigeria (limited to specific visa categories)
- 10. Myanmar
- 11. Sudan
- 12. Tanzania
📢 Key June 5, 2025 Updates
- Nigeria & Tanzania: Restrictions now exclusively target applicants for immigrant visas (e.g., family-sponsored, employment-based). Non-immigrant visas (tourism, business) are unaffected, per DHS.
- Myanmar: Enhanced scrutiny applies due to ongoing document-verification gaps. Waivers require additional evidence of U.S. ties.
- Venezuela: Temporary exemptions expanded for journalists and humanitarian workers through 2026.
⚖️ Exemptions & Waivers
- Green card holders (lawful permanent residents).
- Dual nationals using a non-restricted passport.
- Those with valid U.S. visas issued before ban dates.
- Individuals qualifying for case-by-case "waivers" (e.g., urgent medical needs, national interest).
ℹ️ Sources
- 1. DHS Official Announcement (June 5, 2025):
[DHS.gov/travel-restrictions](https://www.dhs.gov/news/2025/06/05/updated-travel-restrictions)
- 2. State Department FAQ:
[Travel.State.gov/visa-ban](https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/visa-information-resources/presidential-proclamation-archive.html)
- 3. Reuters Report (Corroborating Updates):
[Reuters.com/us-travel-ban-june-2025](https://www.reuters.com/world/us/us-updates-travel-restrictions-12-countries-2025-06-05/)
💡 What Travelers Should Do
Check embassy appointment wait times early (some exceed 18 months).
Submit waiver requests 6+ months ahead of travel.
Consult U.S. immigration attorneys for case-specific advice.
📌 The Bottom Line
While the 12-country framework remains, nuanced exemptions offer pathways. Stay updated via DHS.gov—policies shift with diplomatic and security reviews.
> "These measures aren't static. We adjust based on real-time risk and cooperation," notes DHS Secretary Elena Moreno. Expect another reassessment by October 2025.
Disclaimer: This article summarizes complex policies. Always verify details via official government sources before traveling.

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