NEW YORK – A sweeping expansion of the United States’ travel ban policy has drawn sharp condemnation from advocacy groups and foreign governments. The New York Immigration Coalition (NYIC), representing over 200 immigrant and refugee rights organizations across New York State, has denounced the Trump administration’s latest proclamation imposing an indefinite suspension on legal immigration processing for nationals from 20 additional countries.
The policy update, announced last week, effectively halts all visa processing and immigration benefits for petitioners from 39 countries and Palestine. President Trump’s proclamation specifically named Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, and Haiti among the newly restricted nations, with measures taking effect January 1, 2026.
According to NYIC President and CEO Murad Awawdeh, the indefinite hold impacts a wide spectrum of immigration processes including citizenship applications, naturalization ceremonies, work permits, spousal petitions, and status adjustments administered by US Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).
Awawdeh characterized the policy as ‘driven by discrimination against applicants from African- and Muslim-majority countries’ and demonstrating ‘callous indifference to those fleeing war-torn regions.’ He warned the measure would create a vulnerable population ‘at risk of being funneled into the administration’s deportation machine,’ while enriching private prison corporations.
The Caribbean Community (Caricom) has expressed formal concern regarding the restrictions affecting member states Antigua and Barbuda and Dominica. In an official statement, Caricom’s Bureau acknowledged nations’ rights to regulate border entry but noted concern over the lack of prior consultation and potential adverse effects on ‘legitimate travel, people-to-people exchanges, and the social and economic well-being of these small states.’
The regional body specifically highlighted uncertainties regarding the status of existing visas after January 2026 and called for immediate engagement between US authorities and affected governments to address outstanding concerns. Caricom reaffirmed its commitment to ‘dialogue and cooperation based on mutual respect, shared interests and the rule of law.’
Awawdeh has urged the US Congress to condemn the administration’s actions and demand policy reversal, noting that American taxpayers ultimately bear the costs of expanded detention programs while facing cuts to social services and healthcare access.