US President Donald Trump, in a move of urgency, signed a measure on Wednesday (April 4) restricting the entry of citizens from certain countries into the United States. The measure will take effect on June 9, but visas issued before this date will not be revoked. However, these visas may be subject to additional scrutiny or conditions upon entry.
The document outlining the measure provides a detailed explanation of the US government’s primary aim, which is to safeguard its citizens from potential terrorist threats and other risks to national or public security. President Trump explained that the countries on the total block list were identified due to their association with terrorist activities, lack of cooperation in visa security, inability to accurately verify traveler identities, inadequately maintained criminal records, and high rates of overstay in the US, giving the audience a clear understanding of the decision-making process.
“We cannot have open immigration from any country where we cannot safely and reliably screen those seeking to enter the United States,” said President Donald Trump.
The White House clarified that the measure includes important exemptions. Notably, athletes, coaches, and their close relatives traveling to the 2026 World Cup, the Olympics, or other major sporting events are exempt from this restriction, providing a sense of fairness and understanding for these special circumstances.
The order completely blocks entry from 12 countries: Afghanistan, Myanmar, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Chad, Eritrea, Equatorial Guinea, Haiti, Iran, Yemen, Libya, Somalia, and Sudan.
The countries of Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela will have partial restrictions in place.