What's happened
As US immigration policies under President Trump deter international travel, UK visitors to the US have decreased by 14.3% in March 2025 compared to the previous year. Reports of detentions and deportations have led many to reconsider their travel plans, opting for alternative destinations instead.
What's behind the headline?
Impact of Immigration Policies on Travel
- The current immigration climate under Trump has created significant anxiety among international travelers, particularly from the UK. Reports of detentions and deportations have led to a notable decline in travel, with UK visitors down 14.3% in March 2025 compared to the previous year.
- Many travelers are opting for alternative destinations, as seen in the case of Jenny, a British traveler who canceled her trip to Boston due to concerns over US immigration policies. This sentiment is echoed by others who feel uneasy about traveling to the US.
- The decline in travel could have long-term economic implications for the US tourism industry, which relies heavily on international visitors. The U.S. Travel Association noted that Canadians alone spent $20.5 billion in the US last year, supporting numerous jobs.
- As the 2026 World Cup approaches, the potential for decreased international tourism could impact attendance and revenue, raising concerns about the US's image as a welcoming destination.
- The ongoing narrative surrounding immigration and travel will likely continue to influence public perception and travel decisions, with travelers prioritizing destinations perceived as more welcoming.
What the papers say
According to The Guardian, UK residents visiting the US were down 14.3% in March compared to the previous year, with many travelers expressing anxiety over immigration policies. Jenny, a British traveler, stated, "I had a growing feeling that I really didn’t want to give this new America our money." In contrast, the NY Post highlights a surge in migrants attempting to cross into Canada, indicating a broader trend of individuals seeking refuge from the US's stringent immigration policies. The Independent notes that the decline in crossings is one of the most severe since the pandemic, emphasizing the impact of Trump's hardline stance on immigration. This multifaceted issue illustrates the interconnectedness of immigration policy and international travel, with significant implications for both sectors.
How we got here
The decline in travel to the US follows a series of hardline immigration policies enacted by the Trump administration, including threats to deport migrants and increased scrutiny at border points. This has created a climate of fear among potential travelers, particularly from the UK.
Go deeper
- What are the main reasons for the decline in travel to the US?
- How are other countries responding to US immigration policies?
- What might this mean for future tourism in the US?
Common question
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Why is travel to the US declining in 2025?
Travel to the United States has seen a notable drop, particularly from UK and Canadian visitors. This decline raises questions about the factors influencing travel decisions, especially in light of changing immigration policies and travelers' shifting preferences. Below, we explore the reasons behind this trend and what it means for future travel plans.
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How Are Recent US Immigration Policies Affecting Travel Trends?
Recent changes in US immigration policies have sparked significant concerns among international travelers, particularly from the UK. With a notable decline in UK visitors to the US, many are left wondering how these policies are reshaping travel plans and preferences. Below, we explore the impact of these policies on travel trends and what alternatives travelers are considering.
More on these topics
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Donald John Trump is an American politician, media personality, and businessman who served as the 45th president of the United States from 2017 to 2021.
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The United States of America, commonly known as the United States or America, is a country mostly located in central North America, between Canada and Mexico.
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Canada is a country in the northern part of North America. Its ten provinces and three territories extend from the Atlantic to the Pacific and northward into the Arctic Ocean, covering 9.98 million square kilometres, making it the world's second-largest c