Entry to AS Tightens: Visa Limits for 39 Countries and Higher Immigration Fees

Jakarta, KORANTRANSAKSI.com – The United States government has implemented major changes to its visa and immigration policies effective January 1, 2026. The policy includes a ban on issuing visas to citizens from 39 countries, as well as increases in several immigration service fees.

According to Travel and Tour World, this change is one of the most significant updates to the U.S. immigration system in recent years. It is expected to affect students, foreign workers, and tourists.

Visa Ban for 39 Countries

The policy is part of a presidential proclamation that expands previous restrictions. In total, 39 countries are affected, with varying levels of restriction—ranging from full bans to partial bans. For countries under a full ban, all visa issuance—both for long-term residence and temporary visits—is halted.

Meanwhile, for countries under partial restrictions, only certain visa categories remain allowed. The policy is based on national security considerations, particularly regarding background checks, identity verification, and data-sharing cooperation between countries.

However, the rules do not apply to people who are already in the United States or who held visas that were still valid before January 1, 2026. Several exceptions are also provided, including for diplomats, athletes participating in international events, and holders of permanent residence permits.

Impact and Global Response

The policy has prompted responses from a number of countries. Several African nations, such as Mali, Burkina Faso, and Niger, have reportedly introduced retaliatory measures against U.S. citizens.

These steps are taken as part of reciprocity principles in international relations. In addition, the policy is considered likely to affect global mobility, including travel for education, work, and tourism.

Higher Immigration Fees

In addition to visa restrictions, the U.S. government also raised several fees for immigration-related services. Some of the changes include:

1. Work authorization fees increased to 560 USD (approximately Rp 9,516,000).
2. Temporary protection status fees increased to 510 USD (approximately Rp 8,667,000).

These fee increases are described as part of efforts to tighten the immigration system while also improving government revenue from immigration services. There are also additional new charges related to visa monitoring and compliance, which means total visa application costs will be higher across many categories.

In Effect From Early 2026

The policy officially takes effect on January 1, 2026 and is a continuation of rules that were introduced previously. Overall, it covers around 39 countries and is considered one of the largest immigration restriction measures implemented by the United States in recent years.

(TIM/RED)