Answers to common questions about Donald Trump’s travel ban

On December 4, 2017, the Supreme Court ruled to let the Donald Trump travel ban go forward. You probably hear about these travel restrictions and how the Trump administration wants to change immigration policy in the U.S., but you may not be aware of some important details.

If you have questions about the travel ban, you are not alone. Read below to find out what you need to know about the measure.

What countries does it affect?

According to a New York Times report on the travel ban, the latest version of it places new travel restrictions from eight countries:

1. Syria
2. Libya
3. Somalia
4. Yemen
5. Iran
6. Chad
7. North Korea
8. Venezuela

The first six countries on that list consist of mostly Muslim citizens, which is why some people still refer to the restrictive policy as a Muslim ban. While there are varying details for each country, there are many restrictions on citizens from these countries who want to emigrate, work, study or vacation in the U.S. The measure also restricts refugee admissions.

What will happen next?

Even though the Supreme Court is allowing a complete implementation of the measure, there are still legal challenges that may thwart it. Lower courts in California, Virginia and Hawaii are challenging the ban. There is no way to tell exactly what will happen, but it is possible for the Supreme Court to rule in favor of the Trump administration despite ongoing challenges.

What are the arguments against it?

Many groups and individuals oppose the travel ban for various reasons. For example, the American Civil Liberties Union argues that the measure is an example of religious persecution rather than a desire to protect national security. Other people question why the Supreme Court is favoring the newest version of the ban, which is not that different from previous versions.

If you have more concerns about how you or your loved ones are affected by this ban, talk to an immigration attorney.