Travel restrictions targeting nationals of certain countries have expanded again in 2026, affecting visa issuance and entry for people from a growing list of nations. The restrictions operate through presidential proclamations and vary in severity — some suspend nearly all visas, others limit specific categories. Because the lists and rules shift, affected travelers need to understand the structure, the exemptions, and the waiver process. Here is the current framework.

How the restrictions are structured

The travel restrictions are imposed by presidential proclamation and typically sort countries into tiers: full suspension of immigrant and many nonimmigrant visas for some countries, and partial restrictions (limiting particular visa types) for others. The stated rationale is national security and the adequacy of countries' identity-management and information-sharing. The specific countries and tiers have changed over time and continued to expand in 2026.

Who is affected — and who is not

Restrictions generally apply to nationals of the listed countries who are outside the U.S. and do not already hold a valid visa. Importantly, several groups are typically exempt: lawful permanent residents (green card holders), dual nationals traveling on a passport from a non-restricted country, certain diplomats, and people already holding valid visas. Those inside the U.S. in valid status are generally not stripped of status by a new proclamation, though travel can become risky.

Exemptions to know

Common exemptions include green card holders, existing valid visa holders, dual nationals using an unrestricted country's passport, certain immediate family categories, and select humanitarian and national-interest cases. Because exemptions are spelled out in each proclamation, the precise categories depend on the specific order in effect for a given country.

How waivers work

Most proclamations include a waiver mechanism for applicants who can show that denying entry would cause undue hardship, that their entry is not contrary to national security or public safety, and that entry is in the national interest. Waivers are decided case by case by consular officers, are discretionary, and require documentation. There is no separate waiver application form; eligibility is generally assessed as part of the visa process.

What affected travelers should do

Check whether your country is currently listed and in which tier, confirm whether an exemption applies to you, and avoid international travel if you are in the U.S. in valid status and a trip could strand you. If you must apply for a visa, gather strong evidence for a possible waiver (hardship, ties, purpose) and consider legal advice. As always, rely on official State Department and proclamation text rather than secondhand summaries.

What This Means for You

If you are a green card holder or already hold a valid visa, you are generally exempt — but verify before traveling. If you are applying from a restricted country, prepare documentation for a possible hardship-based waiver and get legal advice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which countries are on the U.S. travel ban in 2026?
The list is set by presidential proclamation and has expanded over time, sorting countries into full or partial restriction tiers. Because it changes, check the current proclamations and the State Department's official guidance for the up-to-date list and your country's tier.
Are green card holders affected by the travel ban?
Generally no. Lawful permanent residents are typically exempt from travel-ban proclamations, as are people who already hold a valid visa and dual nationals traveling on an unrestricted country's passport. Always confirm the specific proclamation's exemptions before traveling.
Can I get a waiver from the travel ban?
Possibly. Most proclamations allow a discretionary, case-by-case waiver if you show undue hardship, that your entry is not a security risk, and that it serves the national interest. Waivers are assessed during the visa process and require supporting documentation.
Does the travel ban cancel a visa I already have?
Generally, valid visas held before a proclamation are not automatically revoked, and existing visa holders are usually exempt. However, rules vary by proclamation, so verify your status before international travel to avoid being unable to return.
I'm in the U.S. from a banned country — am I at risk?
Being in the U.S. in valid status is generally not affected by a new entry proclamation, but international travel can be risky because re-entry may be barred. If you are in valid status, avoid non-essential travel and seek legal advice before leaving.

Last verified: June 2026 · Reviewed by USImmigrationLaw.Today editorial team.

This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Consult a licensed U.S. immigration attorney for guidance specific to your situation.