The developments include expanded vetting, increased discretion, and reduced predictability, particularly for foreign national employees who travel internationally or rely on temporary work authorizations.
Here’s a summary of the six key changes coming next week.
No. 1: Expanded travel restrictions effective January 1
On December 16, the Trump Administration issued a new Presidential Proclamation expanding existing travel restrictions, to take effect on January 1.
Enforcement and screening decisions related to the proclamation will not be limited to passport nationality. These decisions may also take into account
- Country of birth
- Dual nationality
- Prior long-term residence abroad
- Recent travel history
Even if travel is technically permitted, employers should expect increased scrutiny, longer processing times, and greater variability at consular posts and ports of entry, particularly in the early part of 2026.
The following lists are based on the Proclamation and publicly available agency guidance as of the date of this post. Application and enforcement may vary by consulate and port of entry, and exemptions and waivers could apply in limited circumstances.
Countries Subject to Full Suspension of Entry (this includes Immigrant and nonimmigrant visas, with limited exceptions):
- Afghanistan
- Burkina Faso
- Burma (Myanmar)
- Chad
- Republic of the Congo
- Equatorial Guinea
- Eritrea
- Haiti
- Iran
- Laos
- Libya
- Mali
- Niger
- Sierra Leone
- South Sudan
- Sudan
- Syria
- Yemen
- Individuals traveling on...
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