The White House press secretary, Karoline Leavitt, responded to increasing international concerns concerning trips to the United States because more countries Updated travel notice In response to president Trump immigration and transgender rights. Leavitt assured journalists that the United States remains a desirable destination, citing better security compared to the previous administration.
AFP / Getty images
Why it matters
International travel notice are important for citizens planning trips abroad, offering advice on potential security risks. Countries such as New Zealand, Germany and the United Kingdom have updated their travel advice for travelers to the United States, citing concerns about terrorism, civil disorders and more strict American immigration laws. This change raises questions about how American policies affect its reputation worldwide, in particular in terms of business and tourism.
What to know
The government of New Zealand has exhorted Its citizens to “show increased prudence” when they go to the United States, the Council, issued on November 29, 2024, and still in force on March 19, 2025, ranks in level 2-“exercising increased caution” due to threats of terrorism and civil disturbances. It highlights increased risks of violent crimes, possession of firearms and active shooter incidents.
Germany and the United Kingdom also have issuing updated opinions. Germany Ministry of Foreign Affairs Detentions noted In the United States, even for travelers with American visas or approved ESTA requests. United Kingdom’s advice stress Strict American strict entry rules, urging travelers to comply with all entry conditions or risk holding.
Canada and Australia have issued more moderate opinions, recommending normal security precautions. Canada specifically highlights criminal incidents near the American-Mexican border, while Australia highlights unequal potential crimes and violent acts.
The United States itself issued “level 4: not traveling” for countries like Afghanistan, North Korea and Russia, reflecting similar travel warnings issued by other nations.
Journalist: Several countries have warned citizens to travel to the United States. Do you have a message for people who could reconsider business or tourism in the United States?
Leavitt: I think most of them recognize that the United States is an ideal place to do business, a nice place to visit and … pic.twitter.com/bvffv85cp2
– Acyn (@achyn) April 22, 2025
What people say
Karoline Leavitt, press secretary of the White House, during a briefing Tuesday: “I think most of the United States is an ideal place to do business, a beautiful place to visit, and they should come here because it is a much safer country than four years ago under the previous president.”
Spokesperson for the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and New Zealand trade: “The advice on the travel of the New Zealand government apply a four-level travel consulting system to all countries. The United States has set themselves at level 2 out of 4, as well as many other tourist destinations, such as the United Kingdom and most of Western Europe.
“Most New Zealanders will not be affected by the risk of travel in level 2 destinations, but we advise New Zealanders to be cautious. We keep our travel opinions in a regular exam.”
The spokesman for the Ministry of German Affairs last month: “The final decision to know if a person can enter the United States lies to the American border authorities”, adding that approval by the US system ESTA or a visa does not guarantee entry.
What happens next
While countries continue to update their travel opinions for the United States, travelers are encouraged to remain informed of the latest advice. With continuous security problems, in particular linked to terrorism and border control problems, these opinions are likely to evolve, influencing the way in which the United States is perceived internationally.
Update: 04/22/25, 2:18 pm and: This article has been updated with additional information.
