As of 2026, the U.S. does have an expanded visa/travel ban system, but it's not a single blanket ban—it's a mix of full bans, partial restrictions, and visa suspensions depending on the country.
Bottom line
There is a current "travel ban," but it's layered:
Some countries = fully banned
Some = partially restricted
Many more = immigration (green card) paused
Here's the clearest breakdown
1. Full travel ban (most severe)
People from these countries generally cannot enter the U.S. on any visa (immigrant or nonimmigrant), unless they qualify for limited exceptions. This is the strictest category—entry is essentially blocked.
Examples include:
Afghanistan
Iran
Libya
Somalia
Sudan
Syria
Yemen
Haiti
Eritrea
Chad
Myanmar (Burma)
Burkina Faso
South Sudan
2. Partial travel ban (limited visas blocked)
People from these countries are restricted from certain visa types, typically:
Tourist (B-1/B-2)
Student (F, M)
Exchange (J)
They might still enter under other visa categories, but common travel visas are blocked.
Examples:
Cuba
Venezuela
Nigeria
Tanzania
Angola
Senegal
Zambia
Zimbabwe
Laos
Turkmenistan
3. Additional visa restrictions (separate policy)
There's also a separate policy (2026) where the U.S.:
Paused immigrant visa issuance for dozens of countries (very large list, ~70+)
This affects countries like:
Brazil
Russia
Pakistan
Egypt
Nigeria
Bangladesh
many others
Important: this doesn't always block tourists/students, but it blocks green cards/immigration visas.
Key rules that matter
The ban mainly applies to people who:
Are outside the U.S., AND
Don't already have a valid visa
If someone already had a valid visa before Jan 1, 2026 → they may still be able to enter.
There are exceptions for:
Green card holders
Dual citizens (using another passport)
Diplomats, refugees, some athletes, etc.
In conclusion:
Total affected countries: ~39 under travel bans
Plus ~70+ countries with immigrant visa suspensions
Policies started in 2025 and expanded in January 2026
If you have questions on how this may affect you or your loved ones, please contact our office. (213) 388-1821.
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