A number of European nations have updated their travel advice for individuals intending to visit the United States, particularly highlighting fresh recommendations aimed at transgender and non-binary tourists.

This follows President Donald Trump’s implementation of policies in January that officially recognized only two genders at the federal level: male and female. This has added to the worries for LGBTQ+ travelers regarding visits to the U.S., as local state laws and societal attitudes may still lead to uncomfortable circumstances.

Furthermore, an executive order signed by Trump concerning enhanced border control, more rigorous visa vetting processes, and a tougher stance on immigration—combined with an overall deterioration in the United States’ relations with Europe—is causing many European travelers to reconsider visiting the country.

LGBTQ+ travelers are concerned about being detained at U.S. borders.

Trump’s new policies have created uncertainty - especially for transgender and non-binary travellers, as US immigration authorities may now require documentation showing their ‘sex at birth’.

This indicates that people whose legal gender indicators on official papers like passports, visas, or visa waivers do not align with their birth sex—or those possessing an 'X' gender marker instead of 'M' or 'F'—might encounter difficulties when trying to enter. US .

This development has sparked specific worries regarding potential detention at the border for individuals whose documents do not meet the updated US regulations.

Visitors ought to be ready to respond to standard inquiries posed by immigration officials concerning the reason for their trip, how long they intend to remain, and their planned accommodation details. Authorities might summon travelers for additional scrutiny with lengthier and more thorough queries.

Many European nations release advisories for traveling to the United States.

Due to the implementation of new policies, multiple European nations have announced updated regulations. travel advisories over the past several months.

Denmark and Germany advise individuals with passports indicating X gender markers or those who have undergone a gender change to reach out to the US embassy prior to travel.

Finland warns that US authorities may deny travel permits if a traveller’s passport gender doesn't match their birth gender.

Ireland warns travelers that US visa waiver applications necessitate disclosing one’s 'sex at birth' and advises reaching out to the US Embassy for detailed information regarding these requirements.

The Netherlands mentions that the gender at birth should be specified when applying for an ESTA or a visa, and also points out that certain US states have legislation which could lead to negative outcomes for LGBTIQ+ individuals.

Portugal, Finland, Germany, along with several other European countries, have highlighted that possessing appropriate paperwork — such as a visa or visa waiver — does not ensure admission into a country. This realization came following issues encountered by certain European travelers when crossing borders.

Cases like that of Three individuals from Germany who were refused admission and held As they attempted to enter the US in March, these reminders were prompted.

The final say rests with the border agents, they have cautioned.

Travelers from Europe are becoming more hesitant about visiting the United States.

In 2023, according to EU data, Europeans invested approximately $155 billion (€141 billion) in visits to the United States.

However, concerns about entry rules, increased immigration enforcement, and more rigorous visa checks following Donald Trump’s presidency have led to a significant drop in the number of international visitors coming to the nation.

Initial statistics provided by the U.S. National Travel and Tourism Office indicate that visitor numbers to the United States from Western Europe fell by 1 percent year over year in February, contrasting with a 14 percent year-over-year rise during the corresponding month in the previous year.

The French hospitality company Accor SA has seen a 25 percent decline in reservations from European travelers heading to the United States for this summer season.

LGBTQ+ travel agencies They also observe that customer queries mirror this increasing concern.

Darren Burn, the CEO of Luxury LGBTQ+ The travel agency Out of Office reports observing "a significant rise in worries among our LGBTQ+ clientele regarding trips to the United States."

These questions frequently pertain to safety within communal areas, statutory safeguards, and how they might be dealt with. borders or hotels,” he adds.

The International LGBTQ+ Travel Association (IGLTA) has likewise observed an increase in worries expressed by LGBTQ+ travelers.

President John Tanzella states, "These concerns are entirely justified."

numerous travelers express concerns regarding accessibility to gender-affirming healthcare, border Security, passport gender indicators, and general safety—especially in regions where anti-LGBTQ+ legislation has been implemented," he notes.

Guidance for LGBTQ+ travelers planning trips to the United States

Visitors with worries about traveling to the U.S. can reach out to IGLTA for assistance. Diversity in Gender Travel Advisory Panel (GTAG).

The self-organized team comprising prominent figures from various industries globally is dedicated to "guaranteeing that transgender and gender-diverse travelers can move freely, safely, and with respect."

GTAG recently hosted a webinar Discussing the difficulties faced by transgender travelers and providing practical measures for companies to keep supporting LGBTQ+ visitors during uncertain times.

The travel agency Out of Office claims that they offer customized guidance for travelers and can modify trip plans to focus on locations where clients will experience greater comfort.