Trump Tightens U.S. Entry Rules: Tanzania Among 15 Nations Hit by New Travel Restrictions

U.S. President Donald Trump has expanded America’s travel restrictions once again. Tanzania now joins 14 other nations facing new entry limits. The order, signed on December 16, 2025, blames weak screening and poor information sharing by Tanzanian authorities. It also points to high visa overstay rates as a growing problem.

Data from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security shows troubling numbers. Tanzanians with B-1/B-2 visas overstay at 8.3%. Those on F, M and J visas, including students and exchange visitors, overstay at 13.97%. These figures, Trump officials say, prove Tanzania’s systems need stronger oversight and cooperation.

The White House called the new measures partial restrictions, not a full ban. People from the affected countries can still enter the U.S. under tighter checks and limited visa categories. The nations listed are Angola, Antigua and Barbuda, Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Dominica, Gabon, The Gambia, Malawi, Mauritania, Nigeria, Senegal, Tanzania, Tonga, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

Trump’s team says the move is about national security. They argue the U.S. must protect its borders and ensure proper vetting of all travelers. “Every visitor must be fully identified and verified,” a White House statement read.

Reactions have been split. Critics believe the ban hurts African students and professionals seeking opportunity. They call it unfair and politically motivated. Supporters claim it’s necessary to strengthen border control and reduce risk.

The new order sends a clear signal. The U.S. wants stronger cooperation on data sharing and identity verification. Countries that fail to meet those standards may face tougher rules ahead. Tanzania and its neighbors now have a choice to improve compliance or remain restricted.