Trump’s proposed travel ban may impact Pakistan, Afghanistan, Bhutan among 41 nations
PTC Web Desk: The United States is considering implementing new travel restrictions that could impact 41 countries, including Pakistan, Afghanistan, and Bhutan, as part of US President Donald Trump’s crackdown on illegal immigration. According to a draft document accessed by Reuters, the proposed restrictions could be broader than the travel bans introduced during Trump's first term, which targeted travellers from seven Muslim-majority nations.
Pakistan is reportedly grouped with 26 other countries that may face a partial suspension of US visa issuance if the Shehbaz Sharif-led government does not address security and immigration-related concerns within 60 days. Other nations on this list include Turkmenistan, Belarus, Bhutan, and Vanuatu—the latter gaining attention recently after former IPL chairman Lalit Modi claimed to have obtained its citizenship.
Meanwhile, 10 countries—including Afghanistan, Iran, North Korea, and Venezuela—have been placed on a “red list,” meaning their citizens could face a complete visa suspension. Another set of five countries, including Eritrea, Myanmar, and Haiti, may see restrictions on specific visa categories such as student and tourist visas.
The development comes amid tensions between the US and Pakistan, highlighted by the recent deportation of Pakistani ambassador to Turkmenistan, KK Ahsan Wagan, from Los Angeles due to alleged "controversial visa references." However, the Pakistani Foreign Ministry has dismissed reports of an imminent travel ban as "speculative," with spokesperson Shafqat Ali Khan stating that no official notification has been received from Washington.
Trump, who has pledged to enforce stricter immigration policies if re-elected, signed an executive order on January 20, requiring heightened vetting for all foreign nationals seeking entry into the US. The proposed visa restrictions, if implemented, could have significant diplomatic and economic implications for affected nations.
- With inputs from agencies
