The number of tourists traveling to the United States from Germany has significantly decreased since President Donald Trump began his second term. This decline follows changes in American immigration policies that have resulted in the detention of several German tourists at the US border. In some instances, these detentions have lasted for weeks. Reports indicate that one individual was denied entry due to anti-Trump messages found on their phone.
Despite the drop in new bookings, most previously arranged holidays from Germany to the US are proceeding as planned. German travel agencies report a 50 percent reduction in bookings compared to the same period last year when Joe Biden was president. However, no cancellations have been noted so far.
For those with upcoming travel plans to the US, it is advisable to take precautions. Backing up data before traveling is essential, as US authorities may seize devices if travelers do not comply with requests to unlock them or provide passwords. Devices can be held indefinitely, so securing a copy of data is crucial. Consider backing up phones onto a home laptop and avoid traveling with items that could be construed as work tools, as demonstrated by the case of a Berlin tattoo artist detained for carrying tattoo equipment.
Travelers should also review the content on their phones before reaching the border. Customs and Border Protection officers have the authority to search phones of non-citizens. Refusing to provide passwords could lead to denial of entry, even with an ESTA or visa. Deleting sensitive messages, such as those critical of the Trump administration, is recommended, but ensure they are completely removed from any deleted folders.
Memorizing a trusted contact’s phone number is prudent, as detainees may only be allowed one phone call. Consider giving a neighbor a key and instructing them to contact the embassy or a lawyer if there is no communication for several days. It is also wise to avoid having protest-related profile photos and ensure social media privacy settings are secure, as participation in certain protests has led to visa cancellations.
Before travel, ensure devices are turned off, as password security is stronger when they are freshly powered on. Disabling features like FaceID and TouchID is also advisable. Lastly, travelers should have sufficient funds available to purchase a last-minute ticket home in case of an emergency, as illustrated by a recent incident where a traveler had to quickly book a costly flight back to Germany.
The Bottom Line
The decline in German tourists visiting the US reflects broader concerns about stringent immigration policies and their enforcement. For potential travelers, understanding these policies and preparing accordingly can mitigate risks of detainment and entry denial. The situation underscores the need for travelers to be aware of their digital footprint and the implications of carrying electronic devices across borders. Beyond individual travel plans, these developments may also impact the tourism industry and international relations between Germany and the United States.
For ordinary travelers, these policy shifts mean increased scrutiny and potential disruptions during travel, emphasizing the importance of staying informed and cautious when planning trips to the US. This may also influence the decision-making process for those considering travel to the United States, factoring in not only the cost but also the potential for unexpected legal and logistical challenges.
