KABUL, AFGHANISTAN – The US administration is considering imposing new travel restrictions that could affect citizens from 41 countries, including Afghanistan, according to a Reuters report.
The report, citing sources familiar with the matter and an internal memo, stated that the proposed restrictions divide countries into three categories. The first group, which includes Afghanistan, Iran, Syria, and North Korea, would face a full suspension of visa issuance.
The second group, consisting of five countries, would be subject to partial suspensions affecting tourist, student, and some immigration visas, with limited exceptions. The third group, which includes 26 nations such as Pakistan and Turkmenistan, would be considered for partial visa suspensions if their governments fail to address security vetting concerns within 60 days.
A U.S. official, speaking to Reuters on condition of anonymity, said the list is not yet final and could change before approval by the administration, including Secretary of State Marco Rubio.
The US Department of State has not yet commented on the proposed restrictions.
The move follows an executive order signed by President Donald Trump on his first day in office, mandating stricter security screening for all foreign nationals seeking entry into the U.S. The order directed officials to compile a list of countries by March 21 where travel should be restricted due to deficiencies in their vetting and screening processes.
The potential ban comes as thousands of Afghan citizens, many of whom supported the US government in its fight against terrorism, remain stranded in third countries, mainly Pakistan, with many already approved for resettlement.
Meanwhile, many US Lawmakers, veterans, and advocacy groups have urged the Trump administration to reconsider the plan, stressing the need to uphold America’s commitment to its “Afghan allies.” Critics argue that implementing such restrictions could further jeopardize the safety of those who supported U.S. missions abroad.
