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Trump’s America: $250 Visa Fee & Declining Tourism Threaten $29 Billion Economic Hit
(World-Today-News.com) – the United States is facing a growing crisis in tourism, with visitor numbers plummeting and a projected $29 billion economic loss looming.A combination of President Trump’s policies and a newly enacted $250 “visa integrity fee” are driving international travelers to seek more welcoming destinations, leaving the U.S. economy reeling.
From Welcoming Shores to Closed Doors
As President Trump’s return to office, a noticeable chill has descended upon the U.S. tourism industry. Reports are surfacing of would-be visitors being “turned away at the border” and increasingly choosing alternative travel plans, citing concerns over the current political climate and restrictive policies. This isn’t just anecdotal; a recent Pew Research Center poll highlights growing unease among U.S. allies.
“The message is clear: America isn’t as open or inviting as it once was,” says travel analyst Henry Miller. “travelers have choices, and they’re increasingly opting for countries that offer a warmer welcome.”
Economic Fallout: A $29 Billion Blow
The numbers paint a stark picture. the World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC) initially projected a decline in visitor spending for 2025, making the U.S. the only country out of 184 analyzed to forecast a decrease. Though, Forbes now estimates the actual shortfall could reach a staggering $29 billion – substantially higher than the WTTC’s initial $12.5 billion projection. This represents a considerable loss for hotels, restaurants, attractions, and countless other businesses that rely on tourism revenue.
the “Big Stunning Bill” and the $250 Barrier
Adding fuel to the fire is the recently signed “Big Beatiful Bill,” a sweeping legislative package that includes a new “visa integrity fee” of at least $250 for all nonimmigrant visa holders. This non-waivable fee, set to be adjusted for inflation annually, is sparking outrage among travel industry leaders.
According to the bill’s text (H.B.1), the fee is intended to “strengthen immigration enforcement, deter visa overstays, and fund border security.” however, critics argue it will simply deter legitimate tourists and damage the U.S.’s reputation as a global destination.
A State Department spokesperson defended the fee, stating it supports the administration’s priorities. Implementation,however,will require significant coordination between the State Department and the Department of Homeland Security.
Who is Affected?
The $250 visa integrity fee applies to a broad range of travelers, including:
Tourists
Business travelers
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