US Travel ‘Trump Slump’ Deepens Despite World Cup Hopes

US travel Trump slump deepens as foreign visitors decline despite World Cup hopes. Policy changes, visa rules, and weak bookings raise concerns for tourism recovery

The US travel Trump slump is widening as the United States struggles to keep pace with global tourism growth. While international travel rose by 4% worldwide in 2025, the US recorded a 5.4% decline in foreign visitors. The drop highlights a growing gap between the US and other major destinations, raising concerns across the travel and hospitality industries ahead of a crucial year.

Policy Changes Under Donald Trump Drive Visitor Decline

Experts link the ongoing US travel Trump slump to stricter immigration policies, increased border scrutiny, and rising visa costs. Measures introduced under Donald Trump have made travel more complex and, in some cases, less appealing. Canadian tourism has been hit the hardest, with a steep 28% drop, while European arrivals have also declined. Additional concerns over potential social media checks for visa approvals and expanded travel bans have further impacted traveler confidence. LGBTQ+ visitors have also expressed hesitation due to policy changes and varying local laws, adding another layer of uncertainty.

World Cup Boost Faces Strong Headwinds

The upcoming FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by the US, was expected to revive inbound travel. However, recent data suggests the boost may fall short of expectations. Flight bookings from Europe for summer 2026 are down more than 14%, signaling weak demand during a peak season. Hotels in host cities are also reporting lower-than-expected reservations. Although the tournament will bring some increase in visitors, analysts warn that it may not be enough to reverse the US travel slump under Trump, leaving the tourism sector facing a slower and more uncertain recovery.