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International Travel Warnings Following U.S. Policy Changes

When arranging to travel abroad, individuals often review the latest travel advisories to ensure a safe visit. However, there is often less awareness regarding advisories issued by other nations concerning travel to the United States.

In response to recent shifts in U.S. policy, several European countries—such as Denmark, Finland, Germany, and the United Kingdom—have modified their travel guidance for their citizens planning visits to the U.S. The updates primarily address issues surrounding gender identification, complications related to visas, and increased scrutiny at U.S. borders.

This change comes on the heels of an executive order signed by President Donald Trump in January 2025, which asserts that individuals are strictly classified as either male or female, dismissing the notion of gender transition from the sex assigned at birth. The order also prohibits the use of the “X” marker for gender on U.S. passports and visa applications.

Consequently, many countries are advising their citizens of potential complications when attempting to enter the U.S. For instance, the Danish Ministry of Foreign Affairs has issued a warning that states there are only two gender options available: male or female. Individuals with a passport designating gender as “X” or who have undergone a gender change are encouraged to contact the U.S. embassy before their journey for further instructions. This advisory is especially relevant for Danish nationals applying for a visa or an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), which permits entry into the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa.

Similarly, Finland’s foreign affairs department cautions that if the gender listed on an applicant’s passport does not match their gender at birth, the U.S. authorities could decline the ESTA or visa application. Germany has echoed these concerns, issuing similar warnings to its travelers heading to the U.S.

In addition to gender-related issues, other nations such as Germany and the U.K. have alerted their citizens about documentation challenges and the likelihood of more rigorous border checks upon entering the U.S. For example, a statement from Germany’s foreign office highlights that a valid ESTA or U.S. visa does not guarantee entry; final decisions are made by border officials. Travelers are advised to carry proof of their return plans, such as travel itineraries, and must understand that there is no legal recourse for entry denials, as German diplomatic missions cannot influence these decisions.

This warning was notably issued after reports of three German travelers being detained and subsequently deported by U.S. authorities, indicating an increasingly cautious approach by European countries toward U.S. travel advisories.

Furthermore, the U.K. foreign office has also revised its travel advice, urging travelers to enter the U.S. only with a valid ESTA or visa that accurately represents the purpose of their visit. It warns that criminal records in the U.S., providing false information about the intent of their stay, or even minor overstays could result in severe consequences, including arrest and deportation.

As of now, other countries that have also updated travel advisories for their citizens considering travel to the U.S. include Belgium, Canada, France, Ireland, the Netherlands, Norway, and Portugal.

Source
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