The Trump administration is reportedly considering a major expansion of its travel ban, potentially adding 36 countries to the list of those restricted from entering the United States. This move comes amid President Donald Trump’s broader immigration crackdown, which began in earnest during his second term. Earlier this month, Trump signed a proclamation banning travelers from 12 countries, citing national security concerns and threats posed by foreign terrorists.

An internal State Department cable, signed by Secretary of State Marco Rubio and obtained by Reuters, outlines the reasons for concern about the 36 countries, including lack of reliable identity documents, uncooperative governments, visa overstays, and involvement of nationals in terrorism or anti-American activities. The memo warns these countries must meet specific benchmarks within 60 days or face a full or partial suspension of entry.

The list of countries under review includes nations from Africa, Asia, and the Caribbean, such as Angola, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Egypt, Ghana, Nigeria, Syria, Tanzania, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. This is a significant expansion compared to the 12 countries currently affected, which include Afghanistan, Iran, Libya, Somalia, and Yemen.

The travel ban has been a contentious policy since Trump first introduced it during his initial term, when seven Muslim-majority countries were targeted. Although the Supreme Court upheld the ban in 2018, it has been repeatedly challenged and modified over the years. The new possible expansion signals a renewed focus on tightening US borders amid ongoing concerns about terrorism, visa abuse, and national security threats.

A senior State Department official emphasized the importance of ensuring the safety of Americans while maintaining the integrity of the visa process. The administration’s decision will likely impact international relations and travelers worldwide as the US reassesses its immigration and security policies.