Afghanistan and Iran Join Sudan, Yemen, Somalia, Libya, Chad, and Others to Face Significant US Entry Restrictions and Travel Bans Due to Growing Security Concerns and Aecurity Risks: Everything You Need To Know

Published on December 5, 2025

Afghanistan and Iran now join Sudan, Yemen, Somalia, Libya, Chad, and others facing significant US entry restrictions and travel bans due to escalating security concerns and risks, including terrorism and instability. These countries, already battling political turmoil, armed conflict, and the rise of terrorist organizations, have become focal points for U.S. national security concerns. The inability to properly vet travelers from these regions, coupled with the lack of reliable security infrastructure, has prompted the U.S. to implement stringent travel restrictions. This growing list of nations under scrutiny highlights the increasing challenges faced by the U.S. in managing immigration and ensuring the safety of its citizens amidst the rise of global instability and terrorism.

Afghanistan: A Country in Crisis After Taliban Takeover

Afghanistan’s return to Taliban rule has plunged the country back into turmoil, with various terrorist groups, including ISIS, exploiting the power vacuum. The tragic shooting of U.S. National Guard members by an Afghan national further intensified security concerns, leading the U.S. to halt visas for Afghans who assisted U.S. forces during the war. The Taliban’s control, combined with the ongoing terrorism threat, raises grave national security concerns. As of now, the U.S. faces significant challenges in vetting Afghan nationals due to the absence of a stable government and the inability to securely process immigration requests.

Iran: Stricter Entry and Immigration Restrictions Amid National Security Concerns

Iran is currently facing a full suspension of both immigrant and non-immigrant visas to the United States. The restrictions, which cite national security risks, terrorism concerns, and the inability to confidently vet applicants, significantly impact Iranian nationals. As of December 2025, U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) has placed an indefinite hold on all pending immigration applications, including Green Cards, naturalization, and other benefit requests. Approved immigration benefits for Iranian nationals who entered the U.S. after January 20, 2021, are also subject to a mandatory re-vetting process, which includes new interviews and additional scrutiny. Exceptions exist for individuals who held valid visas before June 9, 2025, or for those facing ethnic or religious persecution in Iran.

Yemen: A Nation Torn by War and Extremism

Yemen is deeply entrenched in a brutal civil war, with competing factions, including Houthi rebels and a Saudi-led coalition, clashing violently. This has led to one of the world’s most severe humanitarian crises, with millions of civilians displaced and in dire need of aid. Terrorist groups such as Al-Qaeda in the Arabian Peninsula (AQAP) and ISIS exacerbate the instability by targeting civilians and security forces. The lack of a central government and weak security infrastructure make Yemen a high-risk area for terrorism, kidnappings, and violent conflict. The instability makes it difficult to implement reliable security protocols, further complicating international relations.

Sudan: Struggling to Stabilize Amid Political Chaos

Sudan is grappling with post-conflict instability following the ousting of longtime dictator Omar al-Bashir. The country is still reeling from military coups, violent protests, and civil unrest, with a fragile government struggling to establish control. Humanitarian concerns are mounting, including widespread food insecurity and displacement. The U.S. has raised concerns about Sudan’s inability to provide proper security and information-sharing systems, which are crucial for effective vetting. These issues have led to restrictions on Sudanese nationals seeking U.S. visas. The lack of security infrastructure and the ongoing political turmoil complicate efforts to stabilize the country.

Somalia: A Battleground of Terrorism and Instability

Somalia remains one of the most unstable countries in Africa, plagued by political infighting, clan wars, and the continued presence of Al-Shabaab, an active terrorist group. Al-Shabaab’s attacks target both civilians and government institutions, and the country’s security infrastructure is weak at best. Somalia’s inability to control its territory and ensure law and order poses significant challenges for national and international security. The U.S. has expressed concerns about Somalia’s capacity to vet individuals properly, as terrorist groups continue to exploit the instability. The ongoing violence and political chaos make Somalia a high-risk area for terrorism and immigration challenges.

Libya: A Nation in Ruins, Divided by Factions

Since the fall of Muammar Gaddafi in 2011, Libya has been plunged into chaos, divided between competing militias and political factions. The country lacks a strong central government, and various groups control different regions, leading to rampant violence and instability. The absence of a unified security force has made it difficult to combat terrorism and organize national security. The U.S. remains concerned about the country’s inability to share vital security information, raising fears over travelers from Libya. The ongoing conflict and militia rule prevent the implementation of effective vetting and immigration protocols, creating a volatile and risky environment.

Chad: Battling Internal Strife and Regional Instability

Chad faces security challenges stemming from both internal political unrest and the instability of its neighboring countries, particularly Libya and Sudan. Armed insurgent groups operate along the borders, further threatening the fragile government’s hold on power. Despite its role in regional counterterrorism efforts, Chad’s lack of robust security protocols has made it difficult to maintain safety and control. These challenges have raised significant concerns for the U.S. regarding the vetting of travelers from Chad, as the lack of reliable information-sharing systems increases the risks associated with potential immigration and refugee applications.

Afghanistan and Iran now join Sudan, Yemen, Somalia, Libya, Chad, and others facing significant US entry restrictions and travel bans due to escalating security concerns and risks, including terrorism and instability.

Conclusion

Afghanistan and Iran, alongside Sudan, Yemen, Somalia, Libya, Chad, and other nations, face significant US entry restrictions and travel bans due to escalating security concerns and security risks. These countries are grappling with severe instability, political turmoil, and the rise of terrorist groups, which have made it increasingly difficult to ensure proper vetting of travelers. As national security risks grow, the U.S. government has responded by implementing these travel restrictions, aiming to safeguard its citizens and interests. The situation continues to evolve, with these nations remaining under intense scrutiny due to the ongoing threats they pose.