Overview
- The bans took immediate effect after the White House added Mali and Burkina Faso to its restricted-entry list in late December, with the U.S. expansion active Jan. 1.
- Malian and Burkinabè statements said U.S. nationals will face the same conditions imposed on their citizens seeking to enter the United States.
- Niger and Chad have already enacted similar steps, forming a group of four African countries restricting U.S. travelers in retaliation.
- U.S. officials say the expanded policy is based on security and vetting concerns and now covers roughly 38–39 countries, according to multiple reports.
- Exemptions to U.S. restrictions include lawful permanent residents, many current visa holders, and limited categories such as diplomats or athletes.