The 2025 holiday season is approaching, and for foreign nationals planning international travel, preparation and planning are now more critical than ever. Foreign nationals should consider the evolving immigration policies, travel volumes during the season, and complex documentation requirements before traveling. While the federal government is on track to reopen, it may take time for operations and services to fully stabilize, potentially affecting travel-related processes.
Further, all foreign nationals should be aware of a June 2025 travel ban that restricts entry for citizens of 19 countries, with a full suspension for 12 and partial restrictions for seven.
For those not from restricted countries, standard travel guidelines apply, including valid travel documents, and the new REAL ID requirement for domestic air travel, which began May 7, 2025. Holiday travel guidelines for foreign nationals include ensuring all travel documents are up to date, being aware of the REAL ID mandate for domestic flights and checking current visa requirements before traveling.
Travel Restrictions and Bans
- Full Suspension: Nationals from Afghanistan, Burma, Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen are barred from entering.
- Partial Restriction: Citizens from Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela are subject to partial entry restrictions.
- Effective Date: The ban took effect on June 9, 2025.
- Exemptions: The ban does not apply to lawful permanent residents (green card holders) or dual nationals from a restricted country when traveling on a passport from a non-restricted country.
- Valid Visa: The restrictions only apply to foreign nationals who are outside the U.S. and do not have a valid visa as of June 9, 2025.
General Travel Guidelines
- Valid Documents: Ensure your passport, visa, and any necessary documents are valid and up-to-date.
- Visa Renewals: If your visa stamp has expired, you must renew it at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad before your travel.
- REAL ID: As of May 7, 2025, U.S. travelers need a REAL ID-compliant license or another acceptable form of ID to board domestic commercial flights.
Check the official U.S. government website or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate for the most current and specific information related to your situation.
If you are a foreign national, consult with an immigration attorney or a qualified legal professional to ensure you are up to date on all requirements before your trip.
