Bhutan has been placed on the U.S. travel ban “red” list alongside Afghanistan due to rising visa violations, while Pakistan is rated “orange.” The ban, which follows a draft policy by the Trump administration, limits entry for citizens from specific countries based on national security concerns and irregular immigration patterns. Bhutan is advocating for a review of its classification, insisting its nationals do not pose a security risk. This ban may significantly affect U.S.-Bhutan relations and immigration processes.
Bhutan and Afghanistan have been included in the United States’ draft travel ban list, with Bhutan designated as a “red” country, indicating citizens will be prohibited from entering the U.S. In contrast, Pakistan is classified as an “orange” country, where travel would be limited rather than completely banned. This decision follows a reported 37% increase in visa violations among Bhutanese nationals over the past year.
The U.S. draft list, prepared by the Trump administration, comprises 11 countries labeled as “red,” where entry will be barred. These nations include Afghanistan, Bhutan, Cuba, Iran, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, Venezuela, and Yemen. The list could undergo modifications before its final approval by the White House, according to the State Department.
Travel classifications have been divided into three categories: red, orange, and yellow. The red group will see outright bans, while the orange category includes ten countries subject to limited travel, often with additional requirements such as mandatory interviews. The yellow list features 22 countries that must rectify specific issues within 60 days to avoid harsher restrictions.
The main reason for Bhutan’s inclusion stems from concerns about “national security” and “irregular migration patterns,” with reports indicating an unexpected surge in visa overstays and unauthorized entry attempts. In light of this, the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has imposed stricter regulations, which may affect Bhutanese citizens’ ability to obtain U.S. visas, including longer processing times and potential denials.
The implications of the travel ban are significant for individuals from Bhutan, as it poses challenges for securing student or work visas and complicates the visa renewal process for those already in the U.S. In response, Bhutan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has formally requested a revaluation of this decision, asserting that its citizens do not represent a direct security threat.
Uncertainties remain regarding the status of existing visa holders amidst the ban, particularly concerning potential cancellations and the effects on legal permanent residents. Furthermore, the administration has raised questions about its stance on visitors from countries classified as orange, such as Russia.
Historically, Trump’s travel bans have faced criticism for disproportionately targeting Muslim-majority and impoverished nations. The initial travel ban, deemed the “Muslim Travel Ban,” faced legal challenges nearly immediately upon implementation in 2017, leading to notable public protests and significant judicial interventions. The Supreme Court eventually upheld a revised travel ban in 2018. Joe Biden rescinded the ban upon taking office in 2021, but Trump stated he would reinstitute similar measures if re-elected.
In summary, Bhutan’s designation on the U.S. travel ban list reflects rising concerns over national security and increasing visa violations. This move not only complicates travel for Bhutanese citizens but also threatens to strain U.S.-Bhutan relations. Given the historical context of travel bans under the Trump administration, ongoing developments in U.S. immigration policy will remain critical to monitor, especially concerning affected nations.
Original Source: www.news18.com
