AfghanEvac Urges Caution as U.S. Entry Ban for Afghans Remains in Effect

The head of AfghanEvac emphasized that the recent ruling by the U.S. Federal Court does not pave the way for Afghan immigrants to enter the country, and the entry ban remains in effect.

AfghanEvac: The Ban on Afghan Entry to the U.S. Continues

Shawn VanDyke, president of the Afghan refugee advocacy organization AfghanEvac, recently stated that the new ruling from the U.S. Federal Court regarding visas for citizens of 75 countries, including Afghanistan, has not altered the status of Afghan entry into the nation.

In a statement, he noted that on August 21, the court overturned a policy from the U.S. Department of State that had been in effect since January 21, 2026. This ruling means that consular officials can no longer deny visa issuance based solely on an individual’s place of birth if they are otherwise qualified.

Current Challenges for Afghans

VanDyke added that this new policy differs from a broader entry ban that has been in place since January 1, 2026. This order continues to restrict the entry of citizens from Afghanistan and several other countries.

He urged Afghans to be cautious and not to rely solely on media reports, advising them against visiting U.S. embassies and consulates without an appointment. VanDyke also mentioned that if an individual’s visa application had been denied due to the suspended policy, their case would be returned to consular authorities for re-evaluation, but there are no guarantees for visa issuance.

Call for Clear Actions from the U.S.

VanDyke called on the U.S. Department of State to provide clear procedures for its diplomatic missions and to reassess returned cases. He also advocated for the reinstatement of exemptions for Afghans previously deemed eligible for visas.

Furthermore, he requested that the U.S. Congress expedite the acceptance and entry process for these individuals to help resolve the ongoing challenges facing Afghan migration.