A travel ban affecting citizens of 19 countries took effect on June 9, 2025. On December 16, the White House announced a significant expansion of the ban beginning on January 1 at 12:01 a.m. EST. The travel ban list now includes 39 fully and partially restricted countries. 

This presidential proclamation only applies to citizens of the designated countries who are outside the U.S. and do not have a valid visa. 

Impact in Brief

Entrance into the United States is now "fully" restricted for nationals of 19 countries, as well as those traveling with Palestinian Authority documents, and "partially" restricted for nationals of 20 countries. 

The full ban completely restricts new visa applications and renewals for citizens of these countries. The partial ban offers access to only limited visa types, including H-1B and O-1. Please review the proclamation for details.

U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services has also announced a pause in processing new and pending immigration applications from the restricted countries, including applications for green cards, citizenship, and asylum.

If your home country is on the list...

• The ban does not impact your immigration status if you are currently in the United States.
• We strongly encourage you to avoid international travel and remain in the U.S.—even if you have a valid visa for reentry—due to anticipated difficulties at the border.
• While the ban technically exempts those holding a valid visa, you should expect additional scrutiny at the border if you travel and likely restrictions on entering the U.S. Consult the Current Travel Advisory alert for more information and resources.

We are reaching out directly to provide information and support to affected members of Cornell's international community. Please contact us if you are from one of the designated countries and have questions about your status. 

The International Services team continues to monitor the situation. We will provide updates if additional restrictions are implemented. 

Stay informed by checking International Services alerts for the most up-to-date guidance. Additional useful information can be found on the Executive Orders site (NetID login required). Subscribe to receive important updates and our monthly newsletter by email. (International students are automatically subscribed.)