United States | Reminder: Travel ban impacting nationals of 39 countries effective Jan. 1, 2026

The proclamation issued on Dec. 16, 2025, expands and revises entry restrictions that impact nationals from 39 countries, effective as of 12:01 a.m. ET on Jan. 1, 2026.

Key Points:

• The expanded travel ban either partially or fully bans entry for nationals of 39 countries and those traveling with Palestinian Authority-issued documents, effective Jan. 1, 2026, with updates noted in BAL’s prior alert.
• The country-related restrictions apply to nationals of designated countries who are outside the U.S. on Jan. 1, 2026, and who do not have a valid visa on Jan. 1, 2026. It does not apply to lawful permanent residents or prevent the travel of dual nationals using a passport issued by a country not subject to restrictions.
• The proclamation states, “No immigrant or nonimmigrant visa issued before the applicable effective date of this proclamation shall be revoked pursuant to this proclamation.”

Additional Information: Foreign nationals are reminded to consult with their BAL team regarding potential risks associated with international travel and to be aware of general travel requirements, including maintaining valid status in the U.S. BAL will continue to monitor developments and update accordingly. U.S. immigration policies may change quickly and without prior notice.

For the latest updates and insights regarding these policies, in-house immigration professionals are invited to join BAL Community at no cost.

This alert has been provided by the BAL U.S. Practice Group.

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