Graphic by Manas Pant/The Gazelle

On Jan. 21, 2016, the U.S. Department of State announced the implementation of new changes to the Visa Waiver Program. The changes, enacted as part of the Consolidated Appropriations Act of 2016, will impact individuals from countries that are part of the Visa Waiver Program.

Individuals from the 38 countries, which were under the program, are no longer eligible to use the waiver if they have traveled to Iran, Syria, Iraq or Sudan since March 1, 2011.

The new restrictions also apply to individuals who hold valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization and are dual nationals of Iran, Syria, Iraq or Sudan.

Some students impacted by the new restrictions expressed no regrets about their prior travel.

“Iran was, and is still, one of the most stunning countries that I have ever been to.” wrote junior Yi Yi Yeap to The Gazelle.

“I have not once regretted going to Iran, nor will I after these visa changes. The 10 days that I was there are worth every obstacle that I have to go through to get a visa to enter the U.S.”

According to the U.S. Department of State, all exemptions from these new restrictions will be decided on a case by case basis. The original announcement specified five categories of individuals who may be eligible for a waiver of the policy. These categories include individuals who had traveled to Iran, Iraq, Sudan or Syria as journalists for reporting purposes, or on behalf of an international organization on official duty.

Individuals impacted by the changes must obtain a temporary visitor visa if they wish to enter the United States for tourist purposes. This process requires an interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate and the payment of a 160 USD visa application fee.