This Article was fact checked and last updated for accuracy on April 15, 2025 by Mani Karthik
I was just helping my cousin plan her first trip to the US last week, and wow—things have definitely shifted since my last visit in 2023.
The good news? The US is still absolutely open for tourism. The slightly more complicated news? There are some new hoops to jump through.
The Current Visa Situation
From what I’ve experienced helping friends visit recently, the biggest changes have been around processing times and additional screening.
If you need a tourist visa (B1/B2), be prepared for:
- Longer wait times for visa appointments (my friend from India waited 5 months versus 2 months back in 2023)
- More detailed documentation requirements
- Additional security screening questions
For countries in the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA), the process remains relatively straightforward, but:
- The ESTA application now includes more questions
- Approval isn’t quite as automatic as it once was
- The fee increased slightly (though still much cheaper than a full visa)
💡 Tip: Apply for your visa or ESTA much earlier than you think necessary. I’ve seen too many friends scramble last-minute because they didn’t anticipate the extended processing times.
Enhanced Border Screening
This is where I noticed the biggest difference during my trip this February compared to previous visits.
Entry procedures now typically include:
- More detailed questioning at border control
- Longer processing times at major airports
- Occasional secondary screening (happened to my brother-in-law who has a very common name)
- More thorough baggage checks
When I landed at JFK in February, the immigration line took nearly 2 hours versus my usual 45 minutes. Not the end of the world, but definitely something to factor into connecting flight times!
Social Media & Phone Checks
This has become more common than before. Several of my friends have reported:
- Being asked to unlock their phones for inspection
- Questions about specific social media posts
- Requests to review social media profiles
Is this happening to everyone? Definitely not. But it’s happening enough that you should be prepared for the possibility.
💡 Tip: Consider cleaning up your social media before travel and removing any posts that could be misinterpreted as controversial. I’m not saying hide who you are, but maybe save that political rant for after your trip.
Travel Insurance Has Become Non-Negotiable
This isn’t technically a Trump administration change, but US healthcare costs continue to skyrocket, making travel insurance absolutely essential.
Last year, my colleague Mark slipped on ice in Chicago and broke his wrist. The emergency room visit, X-ray, and cast totaled $4,800. His insurance covered it all; without it, his weekend getaway would have become a financial disaster.
Look for policies that offer:
- At least $250,000 in medical coverage for the US specifically
- Medical evacuation coverage
- Trip cancellation/interruption in case visa issues arise
💡 Tip: Make sure your insurance explicitly covers the US. Some global policies exclude or limit US coverage because of the extremely high healthcare costs there.
Practical Tips Based on Recent Experience
After helping several friends navigate their US trips this year and visiting myself in February, here’s what I’ve learned:
1. Document Everything
- Have printed AND digital copies of all reservations
- Bring proof of ties to your home country (property ownership, job letter, etc.)
- Have proof of sufficient funds for your stay
- Keep a detailed itinerary handy
2. Be Transparent but Concise
- Answer CBP officers’ questions directly and honestly
- Don’t volunteer excessive information
- Remain calm and polite, even if questioning feels intense
3. Allow Extra Time
- Build in buffer days for visa processing
- Arrive at the airport earlier than before
- Plan for longer entry procedures
- Don’t book tight connecting flights
The Reality Check
Despite all these changes, millions of international tourists are still successfully visiting the US every month. The vast majority have smooth entries with minimal issues.
When my cousin asked if she should reconsider her US trip plans for this summer, I told her absolutely not. The additional preparation is a small price to pay for experiencing the incredible diversity and beauty the US offers.
Just be prepared, patient, and remember that a little extra paperwork is worth it when you’re finally standing at the edge of the Grand Canyon, walking through Times Square, or watching the sunset over the Golden Gate Bridge.
Have you got specific questions about visiting the US this year? Or concerns about your particular situation? I’d be happy to share more from my recent experiences!