Entry chaos to the USA: German travelers fight for visa!

Einreisebeschränkungen in die USA 2025: Aktuelle Entwicklungen, Auswirkungen auf Reisende und wichtige Informationen für Visa-Anträge.
Entry restrictions in the USA 2025: Current developments, effects on travelers and important information for visa applications. (Symbolbild/ER)

Entry chaos to the USA: German travelers fight for visa!

USA - The US government has drastically tightened the entry requirements, which leads to a decline in the number of entry. According to a report by the Zeit , there have been increasing difficulties for foreigners who want to travel to the USA since President Donald Trump took office. Not only foreign Harvard students no longer receive a visa, the entry into the United States is also denied nationals of twelve countries. In addition, the entry for seven other countries was significantly more difficult.

In order to get to visas, wealthy people can receive faster access to the coveted travel documents for payment of $ 1,000. Despite these measures, global considerations only show a decrease of 0.15 percent in the number of entry. However, the US government expects a expected decline of nine percent, which could result in a loss of up to $ 8.5 billion in income.

difficulties in entering

The tightened conditions have already led to numerous incidents. Several Germans were arrested at US borders or they were denied entry. A German woman was arrested because she was accused of wanting to work illegally. Another man was held on to the airport due to a misunderstanding. The case of Fabian Schmidt is particularly worrying, who, despite a GreenCard, continues to sit in US custody. These events are not only limited to Germany; Similar cases were also reported internationally, such as that of a Lebanese doctor with a valid visa, which was deported to HISBOLLAH due to suspected sympathy.

In addition, a French scientist did not do better, he was denied entry after confidential information was found on his cell phone. However, the U.S. Ministry of Department dismissed the allegations that these are politically motivated to be politically motivated.

tips for travelers

In view of these new challenges, the Federal Foreign Office has updated its travel instructions for the United States. Travelers should make sure to check their information for the purpose and duration of the trip closer, since incorrect information can lead to arrests. An ESTA permit or US visa does not automatically grant entry; Ultimately, the decision lies with the US border authorities.
German citizens need a valid biometric passport and an ESTA permit for tourist stays for up to 90 days. These applications should be submitted at least 72 hours before departure, the fee is $ 21. A visa is required for non-touristic trips.

In the event of a refusal to enter, it is recommended to revoke the intention to enter and to look for legal assistance. Affected people can contact the Department of Homeland Security after their return to receive support.

In 2023, the number of German travelers to the United States was around 1.8 million, in 2024 this number rose to over two million. However, the current developments could deter many potential travelers, which could also put pressure on the US travel industry. The situation remains tense and it remains to be seen how the travel conditions will develop in the future.

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