N’DJAMENA, June 6, 2025 — Chad has announced the immediate suspension of all visa issuance to American citizens, a direct response to the U.S. government’s decision to ban Chadian nationals from entering the United States. The move, ordered by President Mahamat Idriss Deby Itno, comes just one day after President Donald Trump signed a proclamation barring entry from Chad and 11 other countries, citing national security concerns.
President Deby declared the decision was made “in accordance with the principles of reciprocity,” emphasizing Chad’s sovereignty and national pride. “Chad has neither planes to offer, nor billions of dollars to give, but Chad has its dignity and pride,” he stated on social media, referencing the country’s limited resources but unwavering resolve.
Background: U.S. Travel Ban Targets African and Muslim-Majority Nations
The latest U.S. travel restrictions, set to take effect on Monday, ban citizens from 12 countries—seven of which are in Africa, including Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Libya, Somalia, and Sudan. The policy also imposes heightened restrictions on visitors from seven additional countries, such as Sierra Leone, Togo, and Venezuela.
President Trump’s administration has justified the ban by pointing to what it describes as “deficient” vetting and screening procedures in the affected countries, as well as concerns over the repatriation of citizens who overstay visas in the U.S. The White House has framed the move as a “common-sense restriction” to protect Americans from potential security threats.
Diplomatic and Regional Reactions
Chad’s reciprocal action is one of the strongest diplomatic responses from Africa to the new U.S. policy. The African Union has expressed “deep concern” over the humanitarian and diplomatic consequences of the travel bans, warning that such measures threaten decades of cooperation between Africa and the United States.
While the practical impact on U.S. travelers to Chad may be limited, given the relatively low volume of American visitors, the symbolic significance is considerable. Chad’s move signals mounting frustration among African nations over what they see as arbitrary and unfair targeting by Washington. Analysts note that the suspension could strain U.S.-Chad relations, particularly in areas such as regional counterterrorism cooperation, where Chad is a key partner.
The tit-for-tat visa suspension is likely to add tension to already strained diplomatic ties between Chad and the United States. It also sets a precedent that other affected countries may follow, further complicating travel and international cooperation in the region.
As the new U.S. travel ban takes effect, both sides have signaled that they are prepared to defend their national interests and dignity, even at the cost of restricting cross-border movement.
