Travel Advisories for U of A International Students and Permanent Residents

Updated June 20, 2025.

The June 9, 2025, U.S. Presidential Proclamation on travel bans and restrictions has significant implications for some international students and Canadian Permanent Residents at the 91³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏÍø. This proclamation impacts individuals from specific countries, imposing a full suspension of immigrant and non-immigrant visas for some, and heightened restrictions on others.

Countries subject to a full ban on travel to the U.S. are Afghanistan, Chad, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Myanmar, Republic of the Congo, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen. This means a complete suspension of both immigrant and non-immigrant visas for citizens of these nations.

Countries with heightened restrictions are Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan and Venezuela. Citizens from these countries will face limitations on applying for immigrant and certain non-immigrant temporary visas (B-1, B-2, B-1/B-2, F, M, and J visas).

It is crucial to understand that these new rules generally apply to individuals who were outside the U.S. at the time of the proclamation (June 9, 2025) and who did not yet hold a valid visa at that time. While existing valid visas are generally not being revoked solely due to this proclamation, future visa applications or renewals for affected individuals may be denied. Furthermore, those already in the U.S. on non-immigrant visas who travel abroad could be subject to the proclamation upon their return.

For Canadian Permanent Residents and Study Permit holders whose home countries are included in the travel bans or restrictions, exercising extreme caution before planning any travel or transit through the USA is paramount. While being a Canadian PR or SP holder offers status in Canada, it does not automatically grant exemption from U.S. travel regulations. Reports suggest that even Canadian citizens with birthplaces in restricted countries on their passports could face increased scrutiny.

Your action plan before U.S. travel or transit:

To avoid potential denial of entry, lengthy detentions, or being barred from flights, we strongly advise you to undertake thorough due diligence before making any travel plans.

  • in Canada for specific advice regarding your nationality, travel document and the U.S. proclamation.
  • directly regarding visa requirements, eligibility for waivers, and any potential exceptions.
  • website for the most up-to-date entry requirements, especially concerning the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) restrictions for those who have traveled to or are nationals of certain listed countries.
  • Confirm with your airline about their specific boarding policies and requirements for individuals from affected countries. Airlines may have their own stricter interpretations or procedures. We suggest that students obtain travel insurance in case they miss flights due to any customs and border entry issues.

The landscape of international travel is complex and subject to change. Taking these proactive steps may help ensure a smoother and more informed travel experience. Students with concerns can email: info@international.ualberta.ca. Consult the 91³Ô¹ÏºÚÁÏÍø website for more information about safety and security abroad