US Tourism Plunges from Europe & Canada: Visa Barriers Hit Hard

The US saw foreign visitors drop 6% in 2025 to ~68 million, trailing global tourism boom where spending hit $11.7T (+6.7%) and arrivals surged in France (105M), Spain (96.5M). Key markets like Canada, UK, France, Germany slashed trips due to tougher entry rules, complex visas, ESTA scrutiny, and political climate under President Trump, costing $12.5B in spend (-7%) despite domestic travel offsetting losses.

Europeans favor easier Europe/Asia alternatives; Mexicans/Colombians opt for shorter US stays or skip entirely. Business travelers cite long waits at borders; families rethink Disney/road trips fearing denials. Airlines report empty transatlantic seats from London/Paris; NYC hotels see 15% European drop.​

Western Europe arrivals fell 5.5% in late 2025 per NTTO; anti-immigration perceptions, border delays deter family/leisure travel. WTTC notes US as world’s top economy but lagging recovery vs. global 4.5% 2026 growth, experts eye visa simplification, marketing to rebound; for now, Europe/Japan siphon demand.​

Key Points

• Decline: 6% fewer visitors (~68M), -$12.5B spend.​
• Culprits: Visas, politics, entry barriers.​
• Winners: France 105M, Spain 96.5M.​
• Offset: Domestic travel booms.​
• 2026: Global +4.5%; US needs fixes.