UK, Germany warn citizens of potential US detention

LONDON/BERLIN: The United Kingdom (UK) and Germany revised their travel guidance for citizens intending to visit the United States (US), warning of possible arrest or detention.

The update aligns with the intensified immigration enforcement measures under Donald Trump’s second term in the Oval Office.

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The advisory from the UK Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) states, “It is essential to follow all entry, visa and other conditions for entry, US authorities strictly establish and enforce these rules. Non-compliance may result in arrest or detention”.

The new travel advisory represents a notable shift from previous advisories, which only briefly mentioned strict enforcement without clear warnings about potential legal repercussions.  

The revised guidance does not specify the reason for the updated wording but comes amid increased scrutiny of intentional travellers by US border officials. British travellers are encouraged to ensure they possess the appropriate documentation and comply with all visa requirements when entering the US.

An Electronic System for Travel Authorisation is mandatory for short visits, and failing to meet the criteria can lead to denial of entry, detention or even deportation.

Similarly, Germany also updated its travel advisory for its citizens, indicating that entry to the US was not guaranteed even with a visa or entry waiver. The update follows reports of several German nationals being detained at the US border.

The German Foreign Ministry stated that the final decision regarding entry rested with the US border officials and that even a visa could not ensure an entry.

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The US Department of State stated that most German nationals sought admission under the Visa Waiver Programme and obtained an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation prior to boarding.