The U.S. government has introduced a major travel and immigration ban affecting 75 nations, including six countries in Europe. Officials say these measures are necessary for national security. They pointed to problems with foreign background checks and high rates of people overstaying their visas.
The European countries facing a pause on immigrant visas are Albania, Belarus, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Moldova, and Montenegro. These nations were selected because they have not met U.S. standards for record-keeping or cooperation with deportation efforts.
This decision comes at a time of high international tension. Relations with Europe have become strained following a proposal by the U.S. to annex Greenland. Major allies like France and Germany have strongly opposed this idea, leading to threats of new trade taxes.
For most people, these new rules mainly affect those who want to move to America permanently through family or work sponsorship. Most tourists and business travelers should still be able to visit. However, there are concerns about how this might affect families and fans traveling for the 2026 World Cup.
Public opinion on the ban is split. Supporters believe it is a vital step to secure the borders and put “America First.” On the other hand, critics worry the policy will separate families and damage long-standing friendships with other countries.