Keep calm (but delete your nudes): the new rules for travelling to America

a year ago

The US is projected to lose $12.5bn in international travel spending due to aggressive immigration rhetoric.
Vice President JD Vance joked about deporting football fans who overstay their visas during the 2026 FIFA World Cup announcement.
Immigration lawyers report increased scrutiny at US borders, with fears of detention being somewhat overblown but still concerning.
Two executive orders (EO 14161 and EO 14188) allow targeting non-citizens based on political and ideological views, including criticism of Israel.
Cases of travelers being detained or denied entry due to their political views or social media activity are emerging.
Customs and Border Protection (CBP) can search electronic devices without a warrant, with varying levels of suspicion required depending on the type of search.
Refusing to unlock your phone for CBP can lead to device seizure, entry denial, or detention, especially for visa holders.
Travelers are advised to understand visa rules, assess risks, and consider their public statements and social media activity before visiting the US.
Green card holders with criminal records or past visa overstays are at higher risk and should consult lawyers before traveling.
Students and activists face additional scrutiny, especially if affiliated with protests or controversial viewpoints.
Despite risks, many non-citizens continue to speak out on injustices, prioritizing their beliefs over safety concerns.

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