European Nations Warn Travelers of U.S. Detention Risks Amid Immigration Crackdown

WASHINGTON DC — Several European countries and Canada are advising their citizens to adhere strictly to U.S. entry rules or face potential detention, amid heightened immigration enforcement under the Trump administration. This caution comes after reports of travelers being detained and deported by U.S. immigration officials during recent visits to the United States.

Countries including Denmark, the United Kingdom, Germany, and Finland have updated their travel advisories in light of these incidents. The U.S. Department of State has emphasized its commitment to enforce visa rules strictly, stating that barring entry to individuals who may pose a threat is crucial for protecting American citizens.

Germany’s Foreign Office issued a revised travel advisory on Friday, emphasizing that approval via the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) or a visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. “The final decision lies with U.S. border officials,” warned a government spokesperson, advising travelers to carry proof of their return plans, like a plane ticket.

Furthermore, the United Kingdom’s government has cautioned travelers that failure to comply with entry conditions may result in arrest or detention. This warning follows the case of a U.K. citizen who was detained by Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) at a U.S.-Canada border in early March.

In addition to these advisories, both Denmark and Finland have included warnings in their guidelines concerning the recognition of gender on travel documents. Finland’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that discrepancies between the gender assigned at birth and that listed on passports could lead to visa application denials. Travelers with non-traditional gender markers, such as ‘X’, have been urged to contact U.S. embassies for specific guidance.

The Canadian government also updated its entry guidelines, specifying that Canadians and foreign nationals planning stays longer than 30 days must register with the U.S. government. Noncompliance could lead to significant penalties, including fines.

Observers note that U.S. immigration practices have grown increasingly stringent, with some travelers previously enjoying easier entry now facing unforeseen complications. This change has sparked anxiety among potential travelers from allied nations amid fears of a stricter immigration landscape.

Pedro Rios, director of the American Friends Service Committee’s U.S.-Mexico border program, remarked on the unusual trend: “I’ve never seen travelers from Western Europe and Canada, long-time allies, subjected to such harsh treatment.” The incidents not only raise concerns about individual experiences but also reflect broader implications for U.S. international relations.

Travel agencies have noted fluctuations in tourism rates, with over 13 million visitors from Western Europe traveling to the U.S. last year. A report indicates a potential decline in spending by these visitors due to rising fears related to immigration issues, estimating a $22 billion loss this year if current trends continue.

As travelers gear up for the upcoming spring season, the situation remains fluid, and stakeholders on both sides of the Atlantic are closely monitoring the evolving landscape of U.S. border policies.