The Trump administration has announced a travel ban affecting Bhutan and 42 other countries, categorizing them into Red, Orange, and Yellow lists. The inclusion of Bhutan is attributed to significant visa regulation violations and illegal entries by its nationals. This policy will impose strict screening processes and may negatively impact US-Bhutan diplomatic relations.
The United States, under the leadership of former President Donald Trump, has implemented stricter travel restrictions, including a notable list featuring 43 countries potentially facing travel bans. This list is categorized into three segments: Red, Orange, and Yellow. Those on the Red List, such as Afghanistan, Iran, and others, will encounter the most severe entry restrictions. Among these, Bhutan’s placement has raised eyebrows, given its reputation as a remarkably happy nation.
A leading factor behind Bhutan’s addition to the Red List is the significant number of Bhutanese nationals who have violated US visa regulations, mainly through overstaying their permitted duration. This issue has been identified as a national security concern. Additionally, there has been a reported increase in Bhutanese individuals entering the US through illegal means, raising further alarms.
The US Department of Homeland Security reports that last year, 37% of Bhutanese visitors breached visa regulations. Consequently, Bhutanese citizens will face stringent screening processes when applying for US visas, with many applications potentially denied without clear justification.
The ramifications of this policy extend beyond visa applications; Bhutanese individuals currently residing in the US will also experience heightened scrutiny. This could pose significant challenges for Bhutanese students and professionals who regularly seek educational and employment opportunities in the United States.
Furthermore, the diplomatic relationship between the US and Bhutan, which has generally been amicable, may be jeopardized by these new restrictions. In light of this, Bhutan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has officially requested that the US reconsider its recent decision regarding the travel ban.
The imposition of a travel ban on Bhutanese nationals by the United States signifies a profound shift in immigration policy, influenced by security concerns related to visa violations. The subsequent rigorous scrutiny for visa applications affects not only potential travelers but also those residing in the US. This unexpected move raises concerns about the future of diplomatic relations between the two nations, prompting Bhutan to seek a reassessment of the decision.
Original Source: www.india.com
