The Trump administration is considering imposing partial entry restrictions on Pakistan and 25 other countries if they fail to meet U.S. security requirements within 60 days, according to a memo reviewed by Reuters. This move is part of a broader effort to tighten screening procedures for foreign nationals entering the United States.
Three-Tier System for Visa Restrictions
A U.S. official, speaking anonymously, confirmed that a proposal categorizes 41 countries into three groups:
- Full Visa Ban: Countries like Afghanistan, Iran, Syria, Cuba, and North Korea could face a complete visa ban.
- Partial Restrictions: Nations such as Eritrea, Haiti, Laos, Myanmar, and South Sudan may see limits on tourist, student, and other visa types.
- 60-Day Warning: Pakistan, Turkmenistan, and Belarus are among 26 countries given 60 days to address U.S. security concerns or risk partial entry restrictions.
Security Policy Under Review
The official stressed that the list is not final and has yet to receive approval from the administration.
On January 20, President Donald Trump issued an executive order mandating stricter vetting for foreign nationals. It directed cabinet members to submit a list of countries by March 21 that should face full or partial entry bans due to inadequate screening procedures.