PRESIDENT Donald Trump has broadened the U.S. travel ban, adding Tanzania to the list of countries affected by new entry restrictions. This change has sparked reactions globally as part of a wider immigration policy shift.
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On December 16, 2025, a presidential proclamation formalized the expansion, increasing the number of countries under full or partial travel bans to 39, up from a smaller group earlier this year.
Tanzania is now on the list, facing partial restrictions and more rigorous entry rules.
Citizens of several African, Caribbean, and other countries now face more intense scrutiny when applying for visas to visit, study, work, or emigrate to the U.S.
The White House justifies these measures as essential for national security and improved vetting processes.
Officials have highlighted concerns over widespread corruption, unreliable documents, high visa overstays, and lack of cooperation in returning deportees.
The proclamation states that these countries have shown serious deficiencies that make it harder for the U.S. to check travel risks.
Five countries, including Burkina Faso, Mali, Niger, South Sudan, and Syria, are under full travel bans.
Citizens from these nations are largely prohibited from entering the U.S. In contrast, 15 other countries like Tanzania, Nigeria, Senegal, Angola, and Zambia face partial restrictions, which apply to various visa categories for visitors, students, and immigrants.
There are some exemptions, such as people with valid visas, permanent residents, diplomats, athletes, and those whose entry is judged to be in the U.S. interest.
Still, the change greatly limits travel from many developing nations.
This move is one of the most strict travel restrictions in recent U.S. history.
Critics argue that the list mainly targets countries with majority non-White populations and low- to middle-income economies, suggesting possible bias or discrimination.
Immigrant advocates and human rights groups have criticized the policy as punishing ordinary citizens who are not responsible for the vetting problems.
For countries like Tanzania, the new rules have real consequences for families, students, and professionals hoping to pursue opportunities in the U.S.
Officials in Dar es Salaam have acknowledged the issue and are in ongoing talks with U.S. officials to address concerns and possibly reduce the restrictions.
The new travel ban is set to take effect on January 1, 2026, leaving governments and travelers just weeks to prepare for these changes