Trump’s New Visa Policy: Possible Ban on Pakistani Citizens Entering the U.S.
Washington, D.C.: Former U.S. President Donald Trump is expected to introduce a new travel ban, which could prevent citizens from Pakistan and Afghanistan from entering the United States. The restrictions, based on security concerns and visa screening, may take effect as early as next week.
According to three different sources, the policy aims to tighten security checks on certain countries. While Pakistan and Afghanistan are likely to be included, the final list of restricted countries has not been officially disclosed.
A Reminder of Trump’s 2017 Muslim Ban
This decision is reminiscent of Trump’s 2017 Muslim Ban, which restricted travel from several Muslim-majority countries. The U.S. Supreme Court upheld the ban in 2018, but former President Joe Biden revoked it in 2021, calling it “a stain on the nation’s conscience.”
Who Will Be Affected?
- Afghan citizens seeking entry to the U.S. through the Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) program could be at risk. Many of them worked for U.S. forces and now face threats from the Taliban.
- Pakistanis may also face increased difficulties in obtaining U.S. visas if their country is added to the restricted list.
The Executive Order and Upcoming List
Trump issued an executive order on January 20, instructing authorities to increase foreign security screenings. The final list of restricted countries is expected by March 12, targeting nations with weak visa screening protocols.
Experts Warn of Immediate Travel Plans
Shawn VanDiver, head of the Afghan Evac Coalition, has advised Afghan visa holders to travel immediately, as further restrictions may be imminent.
Currently, over 200,000 Afghan citizens are awaiting U.S. visa clearance, with 20,000 residing in Pakistan.
A Tougher Immigration Crackdown
This new visa ban is part of Trump’s second wave of immigration restrictions, first announced in October 2023. The proposal hinted at tighter entry requirements for citizens from Gaza, Libya, Somalia, Syria, Yemen, and other high-risk countries.
Conclusion
Trump’s visa policy could reshape U.S. immigration rules, creating new hurdles for Pakistanis and Afghans. With the final list of banned countries yet to be confirmed, travelers from affected regions should take precautions before the restrictions take effect.
