A growing number of European countries have issued updated travel advisories for the United States, warning citizens about stricter border controls, the risk of detention, and concerns for transgender travellers. Norway, Germany, the UK, Denmark, and Finland have all revised their guidance in recent days.
Norway updated its advice on Monday, noting that an approved ESTA or visa does not guarantee entry. “It is the immigration authorities at the border who make the final decision. Norwegian authorities cannot intervene,” the Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated.
Germany and the UK have also warned travellers that U.S. entry rules are enforced strictly, and breaking them—even unintentionally—can lead to arrest or deportation. The UK advisory notes that travellers “may be liable to arrest or detention if you break the rules.”
Finland and Denmark have issued specific alerts for transgender travellers following the rollback of LGBTQ+ protections under Donald Trump. Both countries urge individuals whose gender identity differs from their official travel documents to contact the U.S. embassy before departure. Denmark warns that travellers may face “unpleasant or inappropriate” experiences at the border.
The growing concern comes after several high-profile incidents involving European citizens being detained at U.S. borders. Analysts say the situation, coupled with Trump’s rhetoric and new immigration policies, could have serious consequences for U.S. tourism.
Industry experts forecast a 5% drop in international tourism to the U.S. in 2025—an estimated $64 billion loss—while travel from Canada alone is expected to fall by 15%.
Recent Incidents at the U.S. Border Involving European and Canadian Citizens
- Fabian Schmidt (Germany): Detained by ICE at Logan Airport, Boston on 7 March 2025. His mother described feeling “helpless” as he remained in custody.
- Jessica Brösche (Germany): Held in U.S. custody for six weeks after arriving on 25 January, including one week in isolation.
- Unnamed Welsh Citizen (UK): Detained for nearly three weeks in late February after attempting to cross into the U.S. from Canada.
- Canadian Woman: Arrested at the U.S.-Mexico border in March despite holding a valid work visa. Held in detention for 12 days.
- French Scientist: Denied entry to the U.S. allegedly due to social media posts critical of the Trump administration. U.S. authorities claim the individual possessed confidential data from Los Alamos National Laboratory.
- UK Subs Band Members (UK): Three members of the legendary British punk band were detained and denied entry after landing in Los Angeles for a scheduled performance. They were sent back to the UK.
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