The US government has imposed stricter travel restrictions under Trump, categorizing 43 countries for potential bans. Bhutan, despite its happiness ranking, is included due to high visa violations and security concerns. This could strain diplomatic ties and impact Bhutanese nationals, especially students. Bhutan’s government has requested the US to reconsider its decision.
Following Donald Trump’s second term inauguration, the US government implemented stricter travel regulations, listing 43 countries under potential travel bans. This list is categorized into three levels: Red, Orange, and Yellow. The Red List includes countries facing severe restrictions where entry to the US is prohibited. Conflict-affected nations such as Afghanistan, North Korea, Iran, Yemen, Somalia, Sudan, and Syria are among these countries.
Surprisingly, Bhutan is also included in the Red List, a nation known for its high happiness index. The main reason for this classification is the significant number of Bhutanese violating US visa regulations by overstaying their allotted duration, raising national security concerns. Moreover, the increase in Bhutanese individuals using illegal channels to enter the US has heightened apprehension.
Data from the US Department of Homeland Security reveals that 37% of Bhutanese visitors were found violating visa rules last year. As a result of Bhutan’s inclusion in the Red List, citizens will now face intense scrutiny when applying for visas, with many applications potentially being denied without explanation.
Current Bhutanese nationals residing in the US will also experience increased scrutiny. This could significantly hinder the ability of Bhutanese students and professionals, who frequently travel to the US for education and employment, to pursue their aspirations.
This decision may also strain the generally positive diplomatic relations between the US and Bhutan. In a formal response, Bhutan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has urged the US to rethink its decision, noting the unintended consequences this ban could have for the bilateral relationship. Among the 11 countries on the Red List, many like Afghanistan and Syria face serious crises, making Bhutan’s designation particularly perplexing to observers.
The US government, under Trump, has categorized 43 countries for potential travel bans, with Bhutan notably appearing on the Red List due to a high rate of visa violations and illegal entries. This unexpected move poses challenges for Bhutanese citizens, particularly students and professionals, while raising concerns over diplomatic relations between Bhutan and the US. The Bhutanese government has called for a reconsideration of this decision given its implications.
Original Source: www.india.com
