A significant immigration policy shift is imminent as the Trump administration moves toward implementing new travel restrictions that would bar people from Pakistan and Afghanistan from entering the United States, according to a Reuters report citing three unnamed sources. These restrictions could take effect as soon as next week.

Potential Impact on Thousands of Afghan Allies

This policy mirrors Trump’s first-term travel ban on several predominantly Muslim nations, which faced legal challenges before the Supreme Court upheld it in 2018. President Biden later repealed those restrictions in 2021.

The new ban could severely affect tens of thousands of Afghans already approved for U.S. resettlement through refugee programs or Special Immigrant Visas (SIVs). Many of these individuals supported U.S. military operations during the 20-year Afghanistan conflict and now face Taliban persecution.

Executive Order Sets March 12 Deadline

On January 20, 2025, President Trump signed an executive order requiring enhanced security screenings for foreign travelers. This order mandates U.S. officials submit recommendations by March 12 for countries where travel should be suspended due to inadequate vetting procedures.

Sources indicate Afghanistan and Pakistan will likely appear on this list. The State Department is reportedly working to secure an exemption for SIV holders, though approval remains uncertain.

200,000 Afghans in Limbo

Currently, about 200,000 Afghans have either received approval or have pending applications for refugee status or SIVs. Many remain stranded in Afghanistan and nearly 90 other countries, including 20,000 Afghans in Pakistan.

This development follows Trump’s January order that froze refugee admissions and halted aid funding their travel. The office managing Afghan relocation has reportedly been instructed to prepare closure plans by April.

Urgent Warning to Visa Holders

Shawn VanDiver, who leads #AfghanEvac, a coalition helping Afghan evacuees, has advised SIV holders and refugees to travel to the U.S. immediately before restrictions take effect.

The policy aligns with broader immigration restrictions Trump outlined in October 2023, when he pledged to limit entry from regions including Gaza, Libya, Somalia, Syria, and Yemen.

Key Points

  • New travel restrictions targeting Afghanistan and Pakistan expected within days
  • Policy would impact over 200,000 Afghan refugees and visa applicants
  • Many affected individuals assisted U.S. military operations in Afghanistan
  • State Department seeking exemption for Special Immigrant Visa holders
  • Immigration advocates urge immediate travel for those with valid visas