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New international travel restrictions by the U.S. federal government

  • Moderate Risk
  • Moderate Risk
U.S. travel and immigration policy updates

Recent U.S. presidential orders have tightened travel and immigration policies. Key changes include:

  • Gender-neutral passports will no longer be issued or renewed.
  • Foreign nationals aged 14+ must comply with the Alien Registration Requirement if staying 30+ days (unless they were already registered when applying for a US visa).
  • Entry bans affect nationals from several countries, with visa suspensions for others; exemptions or waivers may apply.
  • Visa processing at certain embassies (e.g., Niger, Zimbabwe) has been suspended; most Palestinian passport holders face restrictions.
  • H-1B visa petitions now require a one-time USD 100,000 fee (affecting only new applications).
  • Security reviews have paused ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) for Romania, rescinding its Visa Waiver Program designation.

 

Beginning December 2025, all foreign nationals, including Canadians, will gradually be required to be photographed upon entry or exit at airports, land ports and seaports.

Travel

Travel to the U.S. may face disruptions. Potential measures include:

  • Travel bans: Additional countries could be added to existing bans based on security, refugee or visa compliance concerns, potentially causing short-notice disruptions at airports and entry points.
  • Visa policy tightening: Business travellers and students may face delays, higher denial rates and longer wait times due to enhanced vetting.
  • Security measures: Increased inspections of electronic devices, social media accounts and past visa infractions may occur, with a higher risk of detainment or deportation for flagged travellers.

 

Advice: 

Ensure all entry requirements are met and apply for ESTA or visas well in advance. Anticipate longer processing times and additional scrutiny, verify reentry eligibility and follow government advisories. Avoid public criticism of U.S. policies and prepare emergency contacts and documentation in case of detainment.

Disclaimer

This is a summary of our Advisories. The full version provides a detailed analysis, additional insights and the context for each incident. You can view a sample here.

Request a demo to see our Advisories in action.

Destinations Impacted 

United States of America

Risk Levels

Safe, with few security risks. Travel disruptions: travel is possible with an expectation of routine disruptions and delays.

Generally safe, with some predictable security risks. Travel disruptions: travel is possible with an expectation of routine disruptions and delays.
Not completely safe, but typically presents predictable security risks. Travel disruptions: travel is possible, but there is a potential for disruptions.
Can be dangerous and may present unexpected security risks. Travel disruptions: travel is possible, but there is a potential for severe or widespread disruptions.
Extremely dangerous and presents unpredictable security risks. Travel disruptions: chaotic; travel impossible.
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