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As of early February 2026, the United States has implemented broad entry restrictions under the Trump administration’s expanded travel ban and immigration policy changes. These measures, which took effect January 1, 2026, significantly extend earlier travel restrictions issued in 2025.
Unlike past U.S. travel bans that targeted specific countries for national-security reasons in the early 21st century, this newer set of restrictions focuses on suspending or limiting entries based on perceived national vetting deficiencies, public-charge risks, and border security concerns.
Key Clarification: Visa Suspension ≠ Universal Travel Ban
Before listing affected countries, it’s important to understand that:
- The U.S. restrictions apply primarily to people seeking immigrant visas and certain nonimmigrant visas (such as tourist, student, and exchange visas).
- Lawful permanent residents in the U.S., dual nationals with passports from unrestricted countries, and some category-specific exemptions (e.g., diplomats, certain athletes, and event-related travel) are not categorically banned.
- Short-term travel for business or tourism may still be possible for some nationalities, depending on U.S. consular decisions.
Accordingly, the term “banned” in media and social posts can be misleading — it refers to entry restrictions for visa applicants without valid visas, not necessarily blanket denial of all travel.
European Countries Impacted by the Entry Restrictions
Based on the U.S. State Department’s immigrant visa pause and expanded entry restrictions, the following European countries are currently subject to restrictions as of January 2026:
1. Albania
Albanian nationals appear on the list of countries whose immigrant visa processing has been paused or restricted, meaning individuals seeking permanent residency or long-term visas face barred or delayed entry procedures.
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2. Belarus
Belarusian nationals are included on the visa processing list affecting entry routes into the U.S.
3. Bosnia and Herzegovina
Citizens of Bosnia and Herzegovina are also listed among countries affected by the suspension of immigrant visa processing.
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4. Kosovo
Kosovo appears on the same list — meaning nationals can experience restrictions when applying for new visas to enter the U.S.
5. Moldova
Moldova’s nationals are listed among countries impacted by the visa suspension policy.
6. Montenegro
Montenegro is another European country affected by the current restrictions on visa processing.
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7. North Macedonia
North Macedonia (formerly FYROM) is included in the list of countries with suspended immigrant visa services.
8. Russia
Russian nationals are also on the expanded list of countries subject to restrictions on immigration entry.
What These Restrictions Actually Mean
Visa Processing Freeze
For the countries listed above, the U.S. government has issued a freeze on immigrant visa processing — meaning:
- Individuals without valid visas who are outside the United States may not be able to obtain new immigrant entry visas until further notice.
- The policy affects family reunification, work-based immigration, and permanent residency pathways.
- Some short-term nonimmigrant visas (e.g., B-1/B-2 visitor visas) may still be issued, depending on consular guidelines and exceptions.
Exceptions and Special Cases
Even for impacted nationalities:
- Individuals already holding valid visas may still enter the United States.
- Dual nationals can travel on passports not associated with the restricted country.
- Diplomatic and certain official travelers retain entry rights under longstanding international agreements.
Context and Reactions
European Travel Advisories
While some European governments — including Germany, France, Spain, and the United Kingdom — have issued increased travel advisories for citizens traveling to the U.S., these are warnings about possible complications at U.S. ports of entry, not reciprocal bans.
Political Backdrop
The expanded U.S. restrictions form part of a broader immigration and national security strategy of the current administration, reflecting domestic political priorities on border control and vetting processes.
Bottom Line: What Travelers Should Know
➤ European citizens of the countries listed above should check U.S. visa eligibility before planning travel, as immigrant visas may be unavailable or delayed.
➤ Valid visa holders and exempt travelers may still attend business, tourism, study, or special events depending on visa classification and U.S. consular policies.
➤ Information and policies can evolve rapidly; consult official sources like the U.S. Department of State and your closest U.S. embassy or consulate for the latest updates.