The government expanded immigration restrictions for foreign nationals from countries designated as “high-risk”. The move ends a temporary halt of immigration services for visa, green card, and citizenship applications from said countries. Additionally, immigration authorities placed restrictions on countries outside of the original high-risk designation after review.
An executive order signed on December 16, 2025 outlined the exact restrictions for each country. Additionally, the order outlined the justification for the increased restrictions. Entry for individuals from the following countries is now partially or completely restricted:
- Afghanistan.
- Antigua and Barbuda.
- Benin.
- Myanmar (Burma).
- Chad.
- Republic of the Congo.
- Equatorial Guinea.
- Eritrea.
- Haiti.
- Iran.
- Ivory Coast.
- Libya.
- Somalia.
- Sudan.
- Senegal.
- Yemen.
- Burundi.
- Cuba.
- Laos.
- Sierra Leone.
- Tanzania.
- Togo.
- Tonga.
- Turkmenistan.
- Venezuela.
- Zambia.
- Zimbabwe.
- Mauritania.
- Niger.
- The Gambia.
- Mali.
The impacted countries had particularly visa overstay rates, per immigration authorities. Those with full restrictions are also facing unrest and instability, necessitating increased immigration restrictions for potential public safety and national security risks. It’s unclear whether the government will remove the restrictions all at once or individually for each country.
Resumption of limited immigration services means individuals with pending visa, green card, and citizenship applications should expect a slight delay in decision making. Lawful permanent residents and existing visa holders are exempt from these new restrictions. The same goes for specific visa categories like athletes and diplomats, and any individuals whose entry is in the U.S.’ national interests.
As always, Immigration USA actively monitors ongoing U.S. immigration news. If you have questions about any U.S. immigration related issue, please contact us. Working with an experienced attorney ensures you get the right advice based on the most recent laws and policy updates. In an ever-evolving immigration landscape, we’re with you every step of the way.