The U.S. government is reportedly considering a dramatic expansion of its travel restrictions, which could bar citizens from 36 more countries from entering the United States.
According to an internal State Department cable obtained by Reuters, the potential expansion hinges on national security concerns and cooperation benchmarks.
The memo, signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio, outlined a 60-day window for these countries to address U.S. concerns or face partial or full travel suspensions. The list includes nations across Africa, the Caribbean, and parts of Asia, such as Angola, Ghana, Cambodia, and Syria.
Citing issues like unreliable identity documentation, lack of cooperation in deportation cases, and visa overstays, the document emphasized the need to maintain the integrity of U.S. borders and public safety. The State Department pointed to passport security and anti-American activity as additional risk factors.
While not all concerns apply equally to each country, the message is clear: cooperate or face consequences.
If enacted, this would mark one of the largest expansions of U.S. travel restrictions in recent memory.
Earlier this month, a proclamation suspended entry from 12 countries under similar national security justifications. Now, with this latest proposal, that number could more than triple.
A senior State Department official declined to discuss the specifics of the memo but emphasized that visa policies are under constant review to ensure the safety of Americans.
For travelers with ties to any of the listed nations, or for global mobility at large, the potential fallout could be significant. Business trips, academic visas, family reunifications, and tourism could all be impacted by this travel ban expansion depending on how the final policy takes shape.
As the 60-day clock begins to tick, all eyes are on diplomatic responses and whether these countries will meet the U.S. government's requirements, or risk being shut out.
Related: Major U.S. Airport Abruptly Shut Down Amid Security Concern
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