Washington: Donald Trump's travel ban order has grabbed headlines once again!
The US President on Monday signed a revised version of his executive order on immigration, that places a 90-day ban on people from six predominantly Muslim nations.
The new order, which excludes Iraq from the original list of seven countries, will go into effect from March 16.
According to the revised order, for 120 days, the US will not allow any new refugees into the country and for 90 days, visas will not be issued to people from Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, and Yemen.
So, what makes Donald Trump's revised travel ban different from the old one? Here is a detailed comparison of OLD vs NEW order:-
Who all will fall under the ambit/purview?
OLD
90-day travel ban imposed on travelers from seven Muslim-majority countries. It affected those with visas as well as permanent legal US residents (green card holders).
NEW
The revised order applies only to new visa applicants. It will not affect those who already have valid visas or people with US green cards. People whose visas were revoked under previous order will now be permitted to enter.
List of banned countries
OLD
Ban imposed on citizens of seven Muslim-majority countries: Iran, Iraq, Libya, Syria, Somalia, Sudan and Yemen.
NEW
New executive order targets six Muslim-majority nations. Iraq is no longer on the list.
Affect on refugees
OLD
All refugees were banned from entering the US for 120 days.
NEW
While the refugee ban remains in place, those "in transit" and already approved would be allowed entry into the US.
Affect on Syria
OLD
Refugees, immigrants and visitors from Syria were to be banned indefinitely.
NEW
Syrians will be treated the same as citizens of the other five countries singled out in the order.
Are they any exemptions?
OLD
Blanket ban on any and all travelers from the seven nations on the list.
NEW
There are possibilities of exempts for undermentioned:-
Travelers who have previously been admitted to the US for work or school
Those seeking to visit or live with a close relative who is a US citizen
Infants, young children and adoptees or people in need of medical care
What about religious minorities?
OLD
The old one had reserved special consideration for immigrants fleeing "religious persecution", such as Syrian Christians.
NEW
The new version removes language that would give priority to religious minorities.
When will it be implemented?
OLD
The January 27 order was immediately put into place.
NEW
The new order will come into effect from March 16.
