The U.S. President has issued a Proclamation imposing new restrictions on immigrant and non-immigrant entry for certain nationals for an indefinite period. Those affected include nationals of Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen (who were affected by the previous travel ban) as well as three additional non-Muslim majority countries: Chad, North Korea and Venezuela. In addition, travel restrictions have been removed from Sudanese nationals. Refugees are not affected by the latest travel restrictions.
When do the new travel restrictions take effect?
For nationals of Iran, Libya, Somalia, Syria and Yemen who are unable to provide “a credible claim to a bona fide relationship with a person or entity in the Unites States,” the new travel restrictions take effect immediately.
For nationals of those five countries who do have a credible claim to a bona fide relationship with a person or entity in the United States, as well as for nationals of Chad, North Korea and Venezuela, the new restrictions take effect on October 18, 2017.
| Country | Non-Immigrant Visas | Immigrant and Diversity Visas |
| Chad | No B-1, B-2, and B-1/B-2 visas | No immigrant or diversity visas |
| Iran | No non-immigrant visas except F, M, and J student visas | No immigrant or diversity visas |
| Libya | No B-1, B-2, and B-1/B-2 visas | No immigrant or diversity visas |
| North Korea | No non-immigrant visas | No immigrant or diversity visas |
| Somalia | Heightened scrutiny on applications | No immigrant or diversity visas |
| Syria | No non-immigrant visas | No immigrant or diversity visas |
| Venezuela | No B-1, B-2 or B-1/B-2 visas of any kind for certain Venezuelan officials and their immediate family members. | No restrictions |
| Yemen | No B-1, B-2, and B-1/B-2 visas | No immigrant or diversity visas |
Exceptions
The new order does not apply to:
- Nationals of the applicable countries who are already in the U.S..
- Valid visa holders.
- Lawful permanent residents.
- Dual nationals traveling under the passport of the non-designated country.
Key Considerations
Nationals of the affected countries who intend to apply for U.S. visas or travel to the U.S. should review the restrictions in place and consult with an immigration provider.
Disclaimer/ Contact
For further information, please contact Roberta Carnaccini, Global Immigration Operations Director or Jennifer Baillie-Stewart, Global Immigration Practice Leader.
Source: This update was prepared using information from the U.S. Department of State. Further information can be found at the U.S. Department of Homeland Security’s website.
Disclaimer: The above information is provided for general information purposes only and should not be construed as legal advice. If you have any further inquiries regarding the applicability of this information, please contact Roberta Carnaccini, Global Immigration Operations Director or Jennifer Baillie-Stewart, Global Immigration Practice Leader.