Foreign tourism to America is down sharply in 2025 — and the media is blaming President Donald Trump’s tough immigration stance, visa restrictions, and America First trade policies. But supporters argue this so-called “travel slump” is the price of protecting our borders and keeping Americans safe.
Tourism Industry in Panic Mode
According to government data, 3 million fewer overseas travelers came to the U.S. in the first seven months of 2025 compared to last year. Canadian travel took the biggest hit — with car crossings down 37% and air travel down 26%.
The World Travel & Tourism Council claims America will be the only major country to see international visitor spending decline, projecting a $12.5 billion loss. Their president even said the U.S. is “putting up the closed sign.”
Critics see this as bad news — but many conservatives see it as long overdue. Why should America bend over backwards to please foreign tourists while our own citizens struggle with high costs and unsafe borders?
Democrats Sound the Alarm
Liberal politicians are using the dip in visitors as another weapon against Trump. Nevada Democrats declared Trump’s “trade war” a threat to their economy, ignoring the fact that Biden’s failed policies created inflation and drove up travel costs in the first place.
President Trump’s supporters say he is finally putting American workers, hotels, and small businesses ahead of foreign influence — something globalist politicians refused to do.
Local Cities Feel the Shift
From Buffalo to Seattle, small businesses tied to Canadian tourism are reporting fewer customers. Even events in New York City saw cancellations from foreign dancers citing “policy discomfort.”
But conservatives argue this isn’t a crisis — it’s a correction. America is no longer a playground for global freeloaders. If visitors want to come, they must respect the rules, pay fair fees, and stop taking advantage of our system.
New Visa Fees Hit in October
Starting October 1, a $250 “visa integrity fee” will be added for travelers from countries outside the visa waiver program. That pushes the total visa cost to $442 — one of the highest in the world.
The travel lobby says this will scare away visitors. But Trump allies argue it’s simple: America is worth it. If you can’t afford the fee, maybe you shouldn’t be coming here in the first place.
America First, Tourism Second
Yes, foreign travel is slowing down. But Trump’s base sees strength, not weakness. America is finally putting its own citizens ahead of global tourists, enforcing immigration laws, and refusing to bow to international pressure.
As one supporter put it: “Better fewer tourists than weaker borders.”