Trump Administration Travel Ban and Harvard Visa Restrictions Shake U.S. Immigration Policy

June 5, 2025 — The Trump administration has issued two sweeping Presidential Proclamations impacting U.S. immigration policy. The first imposes travel bans on 19 countries, while the second introduces Harvard visa restrictions, barring international students from attending the university. These developments have triggered political, legal, and academic backlash.

Country-Based Travel Bans: 19 Nations Face Entry Restrictions

Effective June 9, 2025, the administration enacted a travel ban targeting nationals from 19 countries under Executive Order 14161 and Section 212(f) of the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA). This move cites "national security risks" and failures in vetting standards.

Full Entry Suspensions (12 Countries):

Citizens from these nations are banned from entering on all immigrant and nonimmigrant visas:

• Afghanistan

• Burma (Myanmar)

• Chad

• Republic of the Congo

• Equatorial Guinea

• Eritrea

• Haiti

• Iran

• Libya

• Somalia

• Sudan

• Yemen

For instance, Afghanistan was cited for Taliban influence and a 29.30% visa overstay rate (2023 DHS Overstay Report).

Partial Entry Suspensions (7 Countries):

Some countries are subject to partial visa bans, meaning that certain visa categories are restricted. Specifically, individuals from these nations may face limitations when applying for B-1 (business), B-2 (tourism), F (academic student), M (vocational student), and J (exchange visitor) visas.

• Burundi

• Cuba

• Laos

• Sierra Leone

• Togo

• Turkmenistan

• Venezuela

Venezuela’s overstay rate (9.83% for B-1/B-2 visas) and lack of a functioning central authority were key factors.

Exemptions Include:

• Green card holders

• Dual citizens who are traveling using a passport issued by a country that is not on the restricted list.

• Diplomats (A, G, NATO visas)

• Athletes for global events

• Verified family reunification applicants

• Certain Special Immigrant Visa holders (e.g., Afghans who assisted the U.S.)

🔗 View official DHS CBP biometric screening policy update

Harvard Visa Restrictions Target International Students

In a surprising move, the second proclamation specifically bans international students from entering the U.S. to study at Harvard University on F-1, M-1, and J-1 visas. Effective immediately, new visa restrictions are in place for individuals seeking to study or participate in exchange programs at Harvard University. These restrictions are set to last for at least six months.

Scope and Impact

• Applies to new foreign students seeking admission to Harvard on student or exchange visas.

• Could affect over 6,700 students—27% of Harvard’s student body.

• Instructs the Secretary of State to consider revoking existing visas under unclear criteria.

Justification Cited:

• Alleged foreign influence, particularly ties to China

• Harvard’s historical affiliations with Chinese institutions

• Unverified claims of inadequate reporting of misconduct

• Concerns about national security have been raised, partly due to the fact that Xi Jinping's daughter previously studied there.

Harvard’s Legal Response and National Debate

Harvard filed a federal lawsuit on June 5, 2025, challenging the proclamation’s legality. The university asserts that the ban violates immigration law and civil liberties and damages both its academic freedom and financial stability.

Immigration experts and civil rights groups have called the ban retaliatory and harmful to the U.S. education system. Harvard previously won a court order blocking the Trump administration’s attempt to remove its SEVP authorization during Trump’s first term.

🧭 For ongoing developments on this issue, visit the internal update page: Visa Updates: Harvard Visa Restrictions & CBP News

Conclusion: Global Implications of Harvard Visa Restrictions

The dual policy announcements—country-based travel bans and Harvard visa restrictions—highlight a renewed crackdown on immigration during Trump’s second term. Affected individuals are urged to consult immigration attorneys and monitor court proceedings.

These policies may reshape diplomatic relationships, reduce foreign student enrollment, and impact U.S. universities financially and reputationally.