In a sweeping move that is reigniting controversy over U.S. immigration policy, former President Donald Trump has signed a new proclamation expanding travel and visa restrictions on several countries, with Haiti bearing the brunt of the crackdown.
The proclamation, signed on December 16, 2025, reaffirms and intensifies the existing full travel ban on Haiti. It bars Haitian nationals from entering the United States under most visa categories, including family-based immigration, work visas, and temporary travel. The administration cites “national security and public safety concerns” as justification for the continued ban, claiming deficiencies in Haiti’s ability to share reliable identity and background information with U.S. authorities.
This marks the second time Haiti has faced blanket travel restrictions under Trump’s policy framework. Earlier in 2025, Haiti was added to a list of countries deemed non-compliant with U.S. security vetting standards. That designation has been criticized by many Haitian advocacy groups as politically motivated and discriminatory.
While Haiti faces total exclusion, the new proclamation also imposes partial restrictions on nationals from Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica. These Caribbean nations, known for their citizenship-by-investment programs, have been flagged by U.S. officials for allegedly inadequate screening processes and limited cooperation with U.S. immigration authorities. As a result, certain visa categories including tourist and student visas will face limits, and the validity of some existing visas may be reduced.
Despite these additions, it is Haiti’s continued presence at the top of the restriction list that has caused the greatest outcry. Legal and humanitarian organizations warn that the policy will further isolate Haitian families, many of whom are seeking reunification or fleeing political instability and natural disasters at home.
The White House statement emphasized that the measures are not permanent and can be lifted if countries demonstrate improved information-sharing and compliance with U.S. vetting protocols. However, critics argue that such demands are vague and offer little realistic pathway for reversal, especially in the case of Haiti, where institutional resources are limited.
Governments of Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica have formally requested clarification and have begun engaging with U.S. counterparts to seek possible exemptions or revisions. Haiti’s government has not yet issued a public response.
Meanwhile, Haitian communities across the U.S. have expressed disappointment and frustration at what they view as a continuation of long-standing bias against Haitian migrants.
How the Ban Affects Haitians with U.S. Status or Visas
The new restrictions raise serious concerns for Haitians currently in Haiti who hold legal ties to the United States. Here’s how it breaks down:
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U.S. Citizens currently in Haiti are not affected by the ban and retain full rights to return. However, they may face reduced flight access or delays related to broader immigration enforcement efforts.
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Green Card holders (legal permanent residents) should be allowed to return to the U.S. but may encounter increased scrutiny. Those who stay abroad for extended periods risk issues with reentry and could be flagged for abandoning their status.
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Visa holders (such as student, work, or visitor visas) are the most impacted. Even valid visas may be rendered unusable if airlines refuse boarding or if customs denies entry. New visa issuance from U.S. consulates in Haiti is expected to be paused for most categories.
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Haitians awaiting family-based immigration or adjustment of status may face indefinite delays or cancellations, as the ban limits new visa approvals for Haitian nationals across the board.
Advocates are urging those with legal status or pending applications to seek legal advice and stay informed, as these policies evolve rapidly and disproportionately affect those already in vulnerable situations.
As the policy takes effect, advocates are calling for transparency, dialogue, and a reassessment of blanket restrictions that disproportionately impact vulnerable populations, especially those like Haitians who continue to face compounding crises without clear legal avenues to safety or opportunity.
More updates will follow as governments respond and legal challenges potentially emerge.
