President Donald J. Trump is reportedly preparing a new travel ban that could impose restrictions on citizens from as many as 43 countries.
According to officials familiar with the discussions, this proposed order would be broader than the one issued during Trump’s first term.
A draft list, developed by diplomatic and security officials, includes a “red” list of 11 countries whose citizens would be completely barred from entering the United States.
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These nations are:
- Afghanistan
- Bhutan
- Cuba
- Iran
- Libya
- North Korea
- Somalia
- Sudan
- Syria
- Venezuela
- Yemen
Officials, who spoke on condition of anonymity, indicated that this list was formulated by the State Department several weeks ago and may be adjusted before final approval by the White House.
Update: Draft 3-tier Trump travel BAN to hit 43 countries! — NYT
NO ENTRY for 11 ‘red’ countries!
Visas for Russians, Belarusians and Pakistanis ‘sharply restricted!’
Many African nations on ‘yellow’ list! pic.twitter.com/pfap4YFbxV
— US Homeland Security News (@defense_civil25) March 15, 2025
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The proposed travel restrictions differ from Trump’s initial executive order on immigration, which targeted several predominantly Muslim nations.
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While media outlets widely criticized that order as a “Muslim ban,” the previous list notably excluded Indonesia, the world’s most populous Muslim-majority country.
The initial travel restrictions were based on security concerns identified during the Obama administration.

With this new order, the number of targeted countries is significantly expanded.
The administration appears to be taking a more comprehensive approach to national security concerns, increasing the scope of travel restrictions beyond the previous policy.
The rollout of this policy differs from Trump’s first term, particularly regarding the Department of Justice’s (DOJ) handling of legal challenges.
During Trump’s first administration, then-Acting Attorney General Sally Yates refused to defend the travel ban, leading to her dismissal.

This time, the Trump administration has taken steps to ensure that officials in key positions within the DOJ and other federal agencies will enforce the policy without internal resistance.
Attorney General Pam Bondi is expected to uphold the administration’s stance if the order is signed.
As with Trump’s previous travel restrictions, legal challenges are expected from activist groups and immigration attorneys.
However, the administration appears prepared for the legal battles ahead.
Unlike during Trump’s first term, leaks within the federal government regarding this policy have been minimal, signaling a more controlled and disciplined approach to implementation.
While details are still subject to change, the proposed order reflects Trump’s continued focus on national security and immigration enforcement.
If implemented, it would mark a significant expansion of travel restrictions compared to previous policies.
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