In 2023, it was technically possible but extremely difficult for Syrian nationals to obtain a visa to the United States. While the sweeping "Travel Ban" of the previous administration was rescinded in early 2021, Syrian applicants still faced rigorous "enhanced screening" and high denial rates due to the lack of formal diplomatic relations between the U.S. and Syria. Because the U.S. Embassy in Damascus suspended operations in 2012, Syrian citizens had to travel to a third country—most commonly Jordan, Lebanon, or Turkey—to attend a visa interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate. For non-immigrant visas (like B1/B2 tourist visas), applicants had to provide overwhelming evidence of their intent to return to Syria, which was difficult given the country's ongoing instability. In 2026, the situation remains similar, with a new Presidential Proclamation in effect as of January 2026 that further limits or pauses visa issuances for nationals from countries deemed "high-risk," including Syria, making the process one of the most challenging in the world.