Chad Suspends Visas for US Citizens in Retaliation for Inclusion in US Travel Ban

Chad has officially suspended the issuance of visas to American citizens, following the country’s inclusion in a newly reinstated U.S. travel ban.

President Mahamat Idriss Déby announced the decision on June 5, describing it as a reciprocal measure and a defense of national dignity. The move comes after the U.S. government reimposed visa restrictions on citizens of 12 countries—including Chad—citing alleged deficiencies in security screening and lack of cooperation on deportations.

“Chad has no planes to offer, no billions of dollars to give, but Chad has its dignity and pride,” President Déby said in a pointed statement.

The U.S. travel restrictions, set to take effect this week, also target countries such as Iran, Afghanistan, and Haiti. The policy has drawn criticism across Africa and beyond, with affected nations calling it discriminatory and damaging to international relations.

The African Union has voiced strong concerns over the ban, warning that it could undermine diplomatic, educational, cultural, and economic ties between Africa and the United States. The AU urged the U.S. to adopt a more consultative approach and engage directly with the governments of affected countries.

As tensions rise, the future of U.S.-Chad diplomatic relations remains uncertain, with both nations now facing a potential escalation in travel and policy disputes.