Starting September 2025, the U.S. Department of State will enforce a travel ban on citizens from 16 African countries. The announcement marks a significant escalation in Washington’s approach to managing risks tied to political instability, health threats, and governance challenges across the continent.
Libya has been categorized under Level 4, “the highest risk,” alongside Burkina Faso, Mali, Somalia, Sudan, South Sudan, and the Central African Republic. According to the State Department, these nations are subject to a “comprehensive travel prohibition” due to what it describes as “escalating security threats, persistent political unrest, and public health risks.”
The broader policy affects countries listed under both Level 3 and Level 4 classifications will not be allowed to enter the U.S. The decision stems from long-term assessments of instability and governance vulnerabilities, with officials citing “chronic crises and systemic risks” as justification for the move.
