Which Countries Are Banned From the U.S. in 2026?

 Posted on December 27, 2025 in Immigration

Major changes to U.S. immigration policy have left many families confused and worried. This month, the Trump Administration expanded travel restrictions that limit who can enter the United States. As of 2026, travelers from 39 countries face either a full ban or a partial ban on entry, according to the American Immigration Council.

These rules affect more than tourists. Families are being separated, students are losing chances to attend U.S. schools, and people planning to visit the United States for events like the 2026 World Cup are finding that their plans may no longer be possible.

If you or someone you love is impacted, you need to understand how these rules work and what options may still exist under immigration law. Our DuPage County immigration attorneys can help.

Which Countries Are Covered by the 2026 U.S. Travel Ban?

The current policy divides affected countries into two groups: those under a full travel ban and those under a partial travel ban. The category matters because it affects whether visas may still be issued in limited situations.

Countries under a full travel ban include Afghanistan, Burkina Faso, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Laos, Libya, Mali, Myanmar, Niger, Sierra Leone, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, Syria, Yemen, and people traveling on Palestinian Authority-issued passports.

Countries facing a partial travel ban include Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Burundi, Cote d’Ivoire, Cuba, Dominica, Gabon, Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Senegal, Tanzania, Tonga, Togo, Venezuela, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.

Why Does the American President Have the Power to Ban Travel?

Federal law gives the president a lot of authority over who may enter the United States. Under 8 U.S.C. § 1182, the president can suspend entry of certain foreign nationals if their presence is believed to harm U.S. interests.

How this power is used and how far it extends are still being debated. Court challenges and policy shifts may open or close options quickly, which is why timing and legal guidance matter.

What Happens to Haitians and Venezuelans After TPS Ends?

The travel ban has created serious problems for people from Haiti and Venezuela who previously relied on Temporary Protected Status, known as TPS. TPS allows people already in the United States to live and work here when their home countries are unsafe.

TPS protections for Haiti, Venezuela, and other countries are ending or have already ended. With the travel ban now in place, many people from these countries may not be able to return to the United States if they leave.

If you currently have or recently had TPS, leaving the United States can be risky. Before making any plans, speak with an immigration lawyer who can review your status and risks.

Can Family Members Still Immigrate From a Banned Country?

Even under a travel ban, some family-based immigration may still be possible. U.S. citizens may be able to seek exceptions for certain immediate relatives. These usually include spouses, unmarried children under 21, and parents of adult U.S. citizens.

Other family relationships face more obstacles. Siblings, married children, and extended family members have fewer options and longer wait times. Each case depends on many factors, including: 

• Prior visa history
• Any immigration violations
• The exact details of the specific country involved.

Travel bans do not affect every visa type in the same way, and some waivers may be available.

What Should You Do If the Trump Travel Ban Affects You or Your Family?

When immigration rules change, delays can cost families years. If a travel ban affects you, waiting too long to act may limit your choices. An immigration lawyer can review your history and current status to see whether any options exist.

Immigration law is very complicated. Small details often make a big difference. Having guidance from a lawyer who has handled these issues for decades can help you avoid mistakes and protect your future.

Call an Itasca, IL Immigration Attorney Today

If you or your family are affected by the 2026 travel ban, speak with an Itasca, IL immigration lawyer who understands how these policies work. Our attorneys at Unzueta Law Group, P.C. have over 20 years of experience handling immigration matters and family-based cases. Call Unzueta Law Group, P.C. at 630-509-2363 today to discuss your options.

Se habla español.