Business Desk 
Mar 15, 2025
Pakistan may face a partial US travel ban if it does not fix certain security gaps within 60 days. Under President Donald Trump, the US government is considering new visa restrictions for several countries, including Pakistan.
The memo divides 41 nations into three groups based on their screening and security procedures. The first category includes 10 nations, including Iran, Syria, and North Korea, which may face complete visa suspension.
Meanwhile, the second category, consisting of Eritrea and Myanmar, can expect curbs on tourist and student visas. Pakistan is in the third group of 26 nations, and visa issuance may be partially suspended if gaps are not plugged within the given timeframe.
A US official stated the list is not definitive and may be altered before approval by the administration. The restrictions are consistent with Trump's January 20 executive order, which requires enhanced screening of foreign visitors to avert national security risks.
The order requires US officials to list countries with weak vetting systems by March 21, resulting in possible travel bans or limitations.
Trump already imposed a travel ban in 2017, limiting travellers from several Muslim countries. The new policy continues his emphasis on immigration control, which he reiterated in an October 2023 address. He promised to strengthen entry requirements for visitors from areas such as Gaza, Libya, and Yemen.
