US cancels citizenship ceremonies for migrants from travel ban countries
The US has suspended processing of immigration applications, including naturalization ceremonies, for individuals from 19 countries under a travel ban issued in June 2025.
This halt, directed by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), pauses final decisions on all cases, approvals, denials, and oath ceremonies for nationals of these nations. It follows a recent shooting in Washington, D.C., involving an Afghan national, prompting reviews of prior immigration benefits. Immigration attorneys report cancellations for applicants from countries like Venezuela, Iran, and Afghanistan.
Affected Countries
The 19 countries include:
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Afghanistan, Burma (Myanmar), Chad, Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Yemen
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Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, Venezuela
DHS emphasizes ensuring “the best of the best” for citizenship, calling it a privilege amid national security concerns. Secretary Kristi Noem recommended expanding the list, with more countries to be announced soon. Critics, including Senator Schumer, decry it as cruel and unlawful.
