The United States plans to expand its travel ban to more than 30 countries, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem confirmed on Thursday, citing ongoing security concerns. The move marks a significant escalation of US immigration restrictions under President Trump.
Noem told Fox News that while she would not specify the exact number, it exceeds 30, and the administration continues to evaluate additional countries for possible inclusion on the travel ban list. She emphasized national security as the primary reason for the expansion.
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The original ban, signed in June, restricted citizens of 12 countries from entering the US and imposed limitations on seven others. These measures affect immigrants, tourists, students, and business travelers, with officials citing risks from “foreign terrorists” and unstable governments.
The expansion comes after a recent shooting in Washington, D.C., carried out by an Afghan national admitted through a resettlement program. Trump argued that vetting procedures for such programs were insufficient, prompting further scrutiny of immigration and asylum approvals.
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Trump has previously ordered reviews of asylum cases approved under former President Biden and Green Cards issued to citizens of 19 countries. Since January, his administration has strengthened immigration enforcement, deploying federal agents to major cities and tightening border controls.
While Noem did not reveal which countries will be added, the expansion reflects the administration’s ongoing focus on limiting migration from nations deemed unstable. Officials stress that the measure aims to protect public safety and national security.