USA: Travel ban on Chadian nationals lifted April 10 /update 6

Event

On Tuesday, April 10, President Donald Trump announced that, effective immediately, the US government would lift a travel ban affecting citizens of Chad. According to a White House spokesperson, the decision was motivated by an apparent increase in Chadian security measures and protocols. As of mid-April, Iran, Libya, Syria, Yemen, Somalia, and North Korea remain on the list of countries affected by the travel ban.

Context

Until April 10, citizens of Chad without a "bona fide" relationship to the US - e.g. close family in the country, a job at an American company, enrollment at an American university, etc. - were denied visas to travel to the US. According to previous rulings, "close family" includes immediate family (parents, children, siblings) as well as grandparents, brothers-in-law, sisters-in-law, aunts, uncles, nieces, nephews, and cousins.

According to President Trump, the ban was instated to protect the US from terrorism. The measure has been previously challenged in lawsuits brought forth by the American Civil Liberties Union who allege it is unconstitutional.

Advice

Potentially-affected travelers are advised to keep abreast of the situation and to contact their nearest US embassy or consulate for further details regarding visa and entry requirements.