U.S. Expands Travel Bans to Halt Immigration from 19 Nations

The United States has suspended immigration from 19 countries, expanding existing travel restrictions into a broader immigration pause. The new policy applies to nations already under specific travel bans. It prevents citizens from these countries from obtaining U.S. immigrant visas. These visas are for those seeking to live in America permanently. The affected nations include Afghanistan, Iran, and Venezuela. The list also contains several African states, such as Eritrea, Libya, and Somalia. The administration cites a need to address security and information-sharing deficiencies. Officials state the pause will remain until these nations meet U.S. security standards. The policy does not affect non-immigrant visas for temporary travel, like tourism or business. Existing legal permanent residents and certain other groups are also exempt.