Trump’s travel ban takes effect June 9: What it means for 12 nations and US security

President Donald Trump’s travel ban, effective June 9 at 12:01 AM, fully restricts entry to the US from 12 countries deemed high security risks due to inadequate vetting and screening systems.

"The Proclamation fully restricts and limits the entry of nationals from 12 countries found to be deficient with regard to screening and vetting and determined to pose a very high risk to the United States," the White House stated.

The affected countries include Afghanistan, Myanmar, Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. Additionally, travel is partially restricted from seven other nations: Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela.

The ban exempts lawful permanent residents, existing visa holders, certain visa categories, and individuals whose entry serves US national interests.

The White House cited the Fiscal Year 2023 DHS Entry/Exit Overstay Report highlighting high visa overstay rates, such as Chad’s 49.54% for business/tourist visas and Afghanistan’s 9.70%.

"The United States Government has designated Iran as a nation that supports terrorist activities," reinforcing its inclusion.

Trump indicated the list could expand as new threats emerge globally. The ban excludes athletes participating in the 2026 FIFA World Cup and 2028 Olympic Games.

Harvard University criticized the order, which suspends visas for new foreign students, calling it an illegal retaliation violating First Amendment rights.

The travel ban follows security concerns highlighted by recent incidents, including an attack in Boulder, Colorado, underscoring risks from unvetted foreign nationals.

"This is yet another illegal retaliatory step taken by the Administration in violation of Harvard's First Amendment rights," a Harvard spokesman said.

The proclamation reflects the administration’s focus on tightening US borders against perceived security threats through enhanced vetting and travel restrictions.

President Donald Trump’s travel ban takes effect June 9, restricting entry from 12 countries including Afghanistan, Iran, and Libya, citing security risks and vetting deficiencies. Exceptions apply for certain visa holders and national interests. The ban also partially limits travel from seven additional nations amid ongoing security concerns.