Immigration News

Though green card holders are still allowed to travel, tighter screenings at U.S. borders are creating fear and confusion.

By The Haitian Pulse | June 2025

A new executive order from former President Donald Trump has reintroduced strict travel rules that are causing concern—especially within the Haitian community. Under this order, travelers from up to 19 countries, including Haiti, are being subjected to tougher scrutiny at U.S. borders.

While green card holders (lawful permanent residents) are technically exempt from the ban, many are facing longer questioning, invasive searches, and uncertainty when trying to return to the United States.

You are not banned from entering the U.S. if you are:

• A U.S. citizen or a green card holder

• Traveling with a valid visa issued before June 9, 2025

• A dual national using a passport from a non-banned country

• A diplomat, refugee, or approved family reunification applicant

But being exempt doesn’t mean the process will be smooth.

Across the country, green card holders from Haiti and other impacted countries are describing:

• Long delays at airports or land borders

• Questioning about political views, social media posts, and family connections

• In some cases, being pressured to sign forms or give up their legal status

These cases are especially worrying for people with minor past immigration violations or unresolved paperwork.

Although you do not need to consult any agency before leaving the U.S., immigration attorneys recommend doing the following:

1. Carry proof of your life in the U.S. – like job letters, lease agreements, tax returns, and school records.

2. Clear your devices – U.S. agents can legally go through your phone, so avoid having sensitive content or private conversations saved.

3. Talk to a lawyer – if you’ve ever had a legal issue, even a small one, get legal advice before traveling.

4. Stay updated – rules are changing fast, especially with the elections approaching.

Many Haitian green card holders worry about what to do if there’s a family emergency—like a funeral, illness, or urgent situation back home. The truth is, you can still leave the U.S., even under the new travel order. But returning could involve extra delays and questioning at the airport, especially if you’re coming from a country on the restricted list like Haiti. In these cases, it’s wise to bring proof of the emergency, such as death certificates, hospital records, or letters from doctors or family. While these don’t guarantee easier re-entry, they help show that your travel had a legitimate and compassionate reason.

Many Haitians living in the U.S. under the Biden Humanitarian Parole program or with green cards are now afraid to leave the country, even for emergencies. Though technically allowed to return, they worry they could be delayed or treated unfairly at the border.

And with Haiti being on the full travel restriction list, any mistake or misunderstanding could lead to serious complications—even for legal residents.

💬 Let’s Talk

Are you a green card holder worried about traveling? Have you already been affected by the new screenings?
Leave your comment below to share your experience, advice, or questions. The Haitian Pulse is here to make sure your voice is heard.