Passport

The U.S. passport gives Americans visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to a huge number of destinations — but there are still countries where that passport does not make entry easy. In some places, Americans need a visa before departure. In others, a special passport authorization, invitation letter, or advance approval may be required. And in a few destinations, getting permission to enter can be extremely complicated. Here are 9 countries where U.S. citizens face some of the toughest entry or visa requirements in 2026.