Bhutan is on the U.S. travel ban list due to security concerns and a rise in visa violations. The list categorizes countries into red, orange, and yellow categories, outlining different restrictions. Bhutan faces a complete entry ban, while Pakistan experiences limited travel restrictions. Bhutan’s government seeks a review, emphasizing that its citizens do not threaten U.S. security.
Bhutan is included in a draft travel ban list proposed by the United States, alongside Afghanistan, denoting serious restrictions on entry. This comes as a result of a reported 37% spike in visa violations by Bhutanese nationals over the past year, highlighting concerns about irregular migration patterns
and national security. Pakistan has been categorized differently, labeled as an orange country, where travel restrictions are imposed but are not outright bans.
The draft travel ban, initiated by the Trump administration, classifies countries into red, orange, and yellow categories. Bhutan, alongside other nations like Afghanistan and Cuba, falls under the red category, which entails a complete ban on entry into the United States. The orange category allows for limited travel, with stringent requirements, while the yellow category includes nations that must address deficiencies within 60 days.
The increasing number of Bhutanese citizens overstaying their visas or attempting unauthorized entry has prompted this decision. As a consequence, Bhutanese individuals seeking to travel to the U.S. will experience heightened scrutiny and potentially longer visa processing times. Those already on temporary visas may also face more stringent checks during renewal processes.
Bhutan’s government has formally requested a review of its status, asserting that its citizens do not pose a significant security risk. It remains uncertain how this new ban will affect existing visa holders or green card holders, leading to concerns within the Bhutanese community and possible implications for U.S.-Bhutan relations.
Historically, the travel bans enacted by Trump during his administration have been met with substantial opposition and legal challenges. Trump’s previous travel ban primarily focused on Muslim-majority countries, which incited widespread protests and legal disputes upon implementation. In 2021, President Biden repealed the ban, stating it contradicted the nation’s values of inclusivity and hospitality, but Trump has pledged to reinstate similar measures if re-elected.
In conclusion, Bhutan has been placed on a U.S. travel ban list due to national security concerns and an increase in visa violations. This situation may impact Bhutanese citizens traveling to the U.S. and poses potential complications for ongoing relations between the two nations. The evolving nature of travel restrictions reflects deeper geopolitical sentiments and concerns surrounding immigration policies.
Original Source: www.news18.com
