The Trump administration is preparing to significantly broaden its travel ban policy, potentially restricting or blocking entry for citizens of Nigeria and 35 other countries, according to a confidential U.S. State Department memo. If enacted, this expansion would more than double the number of nations currently facing U.S. entry limitations, severely impacting travel, education, and family reunification, particularly for African and Caribbean communities.
New Compliance Deadlines
The classified memo specifies that the 36 countries under review must submit initial action plans by 8 a.m. Wednesday to demonstrate compliance with enhanced U.S. identity verification and security standards. They have 60 days to fully meet these requirements. Non-compliance could trigger full or partial travel bans, mirroring earlier executive orders issued during President Trump’s tenure.
Countries Under Scrutiny
The proposed ban targets 25 African nations, alongside several in the Caribbean, Asia, and the Pacific. African countries include Nigeria, Angola, Benin, Burkina Faso, Cameroon, Côte d’Ivoire, Democratic Republic of Congo, Djibouti, Egypt, Ethiopia, Gabon, The Gambia, Ghana, Liberia, Malawi, Mauritania, Niger, Senegal, South Sudan, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Sao Tome and Principe, and Cabo Verde. Caribbean nations listed are Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, Saint Kitts and Nevis, and Saint Lucia, while Asian and Pacific countries include Bhutan, Cambodia, Kyrgyzstan, Syria, Tonga, Tuvalu, and Vanuatu.
Reasons for Targeting
The State Department memo cites multiple reasons for the potential restrictions:
- Weak government systems: Some nations lack reliable mechanisms for issuing secure identity documents.
- Visa overstays: High rates of visitors from these countries remaining in the U.S. beyond their visa terms.
- Deportation issues: Certain governments fail to cooperate in repatriating deported citizens.
- Security concerns: Allegations of widespread fraud, questionable citizenship-by-investment schemes, and instances of antisemitic or anti-American behavior by some nationals.
This policy builds on a June 4, 2025, proclamation by President Trump, which imposed restrictions on 19 countries, including Afghanistan and Iran. Critics argue the expansion perpetuates discriminatory immigration policies, disproportionately affecting Global South nations, and have labeled it “xenophobic.” Civil rights groups and Democratic lawmakers warn of potential legal challenges and global backlash.
Consequences of Non-Compliance
Failure to meet U.S. standards within the 60-day window could lead to:
- Full or partial entry bans for citizens.
- Restrictions on visa types, such as student, work, or tourist visas.
- Deteriorating diplomatic ties with the U.S.
Existing Travel Bans
As of June 9, 2025, the U.S. has enforced full travel bans on 12 countries: Afghanistan, Burma (Myanmar), Chad, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Republic of the Congo, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Seven others—Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela—face partial restrictions, including prolonged visa processing and stricter vetting.
What’s Next for Nigeria and Others
The proposed expansion could reshape U.S. immigration policy, with significant implications for the targeted nations. With a tight compliance timeline, these countries face diplomatic and logistical challenges. Travelers, students, and businesses connected to the U.S. are urged to stay informed and consult immigration experts to prepare for potential disruptions.
