Deadline Reminders
Last Day to File New SIV Case – The deadline to submit a new Afghan SIV application remains December 31, 2025, with all submissions required by 11:59 p.m. EST. Applications are still being accepted until the deadline, despite ongoing processing pauses and current travel restrictions. It remains unclear whether incomplete applications will ultimately be accepted; however, eligible Afghans are strongly advised to submit at least a completed DS-157 form and as much supporting information as possible before the deadline. Those who may qualify are urged to apply without delay, as no extensions have been announced. For detailed guidance on eligibility and next steps for new and current applicants, please refer to IRAP’s guide here
January 1 Travel Ban – A new U.S. travel ban will take effect on January 1, 2026, expanding entry restrictions to nationals of 39 countries, including Afghanistan. The executive order ends the blanket exemption previously granted to Afghan SIV holders and other visa categories. Under the new framework, any exception for Afghan SIV recipients must be approved on a case-by-case basis by the U.S. Attorney General, Secretary of State, or Secretary of Homeland Security. This high-level review is expected to severely limit, or effectively halt, Afghan SIV travel. Per IRAP, visas that have already been issued, and green card holders are not impacted by the ban, though issues at airports are possible, particularly in the first few days after the ban takes place. The ban applies to both immigrant and nonimmigrant visas and will remain in force for six months, with the possibility of renewal or repeal. Afghans arriving in the US near the deadline should review the following: Airport Arrivals and Know your rights
As a reminder, The Afghan Digest will resume on January 11. Should any major developments occur prior to January 11, an abbreviated Digest will be published.