*On Dec. 16, 2025, President Trump added additional restrictions. Please go here for the most recent update: https://jqklaw.com/blog-iran-travel-ban-update-december-2025/
On June 4, 2025, President Trump issued a new travel ban and this time, it has significant consequences for Iranian nationals navigating the U.S. immigration system. Whether you’re applying for a temporary visa like an F-1 or J-1, or seeking an immigrant visa (green card), it’s critical to understand how this executive order affects your case.
As an immigration attorney with Iranian heritage and a large number of Iranian clients, I want to break down the key points and clarify how this new policy could impact you and your family.
Who Is Affected?
The executive order applies to both non-immigrant and immigrant visas for Iranian nationals. That includes:
- Student visas (F-1, J-1)
- Work visas
- Family and Employment-based green cards
- Diversity visas
The primary reason cited for the ban is Iran’s “non-cooperation” with identity verification and national security concerns.
Who Is Not Affected?
There are several important exceptions to this ban:
- U.S. Citizens and Green Card Holders: If you’re already a citizen or lawful permanent resident, this ban doesn’t apply to you.
- Asylum Grantees: If you’ve already been granted asylum in the U.S., you can continue traveling.
- Athletes and Performers: Some exceptions may be made for individuals entering to participate in events like the Olympics or World Cup.
- Dual Nationals: For example, Iranian-British dual nationals may be able to apply using their non-Iranian passport. However, additional scrutiny is still possible.
- Religious and Ethnic Minorities: Iranian nationals from persecuted groups (e.g., Jewish, Bahá’í) may still qualify for immigrant visas.
Family Members of U.S. Citizens
One of the more critical exceptions relates to immediate relatives of U.S. citizens—namely:
- Parents
- Spouses
- Minor children
These individuals can still apply for immigrant visas. However, there’s a major catch: applicants must prove their identity and relationship with clear and convincing evidence.
The government’s only example of such evidence? DNA testing.
This could mean additional costs, delays (6–12 months), and more complexity for families already facing long wait times.
Who Will Be Blocked?
Sadly, many applicants will not benefit from any exceptions, including:
- Spouses and children of green card holders (F2A category)
- Siblings of U.S. citizens
- Adult children of green card holders or U.S. citizens
- and Employment-based and Diversity Visa (DV) Lottery winners.
If you fall into one of these categories, you will be barred from receiving a visa under this new ban unless a waiver is granted.
What About Waivers?
A waiver process is technically available, giving the U.S. Department of State and Department of Justice discretion to approve exceptions. However, during Trump’s previous administration, these waivers were rarely granted and the process was ineffective. It remains unclear whether it will function better this time.
Already Have a Visa?
Here’s some good news:
If your visa has already been issued, the government says it will not revoke it.
This is a change from past bans, where visas were cancelled even if they were already granted but unused.
Effective Date
The travel ban goes into effect June 9, 2025.
If your visa is issued before that date, it should still be valid. If you’re scheduled for an interview, do your best to move quickly but be prepared for delays, especially due to administrative processing at U.S. embassies and consulates.
Final Thoughts
This executive order is likely to separate families, delay green card cases, and cause heartache for many who have already waited years to reunite with loved ones. We hope diplomatic negotiations lead to a change, but for now, this is the reality.
If you believe your case might be affected, or if you fall under one of the exceptions and want to proceed cautiously, we’re here to help.
📅 Schedule a consultation at JQKLaw.com/contact to discuss your situation in detail.
Stay informed, stay prepared and stay hopeful.
This article is intended for general informational purposes only. For advice specific to your situation, please consult an immigration attorney.
