Nevada, California, New York, Florida, Hawaii and Other More US States Hit Devastating Tourism Slump: New Visa Fees, Travel Advisory, Trade Tariffs Dispute, 250 USD Hefty Park Tax, and Social Media Checks Adding More to Crisis, Just Before FIFA World Cup 2026, Summer Olympics, Super Bowl LX and America 250

Published on December 11, 2025

By: Tuhin Sarkar

Nevada, California, New York, Florida, Hawaii, and other U.S. states are experiencing a devastating tourism slump in 2025. Despite the ongoing recovery of global travel, these states are struggling to attract international visitors, and it’s causing a severe economic impact. The introduction of new visa fees, including the visa integrity fee of 250 USD, is making it harder and more expensive for tourists to visit the U.S. Moreover, the travel advisory and trade tariff disputes have also added a layer of complexity, pushing potential travellers to reconsider their plans. The 250 USD hefty park tax for non-residents visiting U.S. national parks, especially iconic ones, further discourages international tourists who are already facing high travel costs.

In addition to these financial barriers, the U.S. is implementing social media checks, a policy that demands extensive data collection, including social media histories, email addresses, and phone numbers from international visitors. This new requirement only adds to the growing perception that the U.S. is becoming an unwelcoming destination.

As these states grapple with a tourism crisis, the country is on the brink of hosting major events like the FIFA World Cup 2026, Super Bowl LX, Summer Olympics and America 250. These global events should be drawing crowds, but the combination of rising costs and restrictive policies is threatening to dampen the expected tourism surge. To learn how these factors are shaping the U.S. tourism landscape and what it means for the upcoming major events, read the full story.

2025 U.S. Tourism Crisis: A National Catastrophe!

In 2025, U.S. tourism has hit a devastating slump that no one saw coming. Across the country, states are facing unimaginable declines in visitor numbers. This isn’t just a small drop – it’s a catastrophe that’s shaking the core of the American tourism industry. From Las Vegas to California, Florida to Hawaii, the once thriving U.S. tourism sector is now struggling to stay afloat. The reasons behind this dramatic decline are shocking and multifaceted. Political decisions, rising travel costs, and changing international perceptions are contributing to one of the worst years in tourism history for the United States.

Trump Administration Proposes Controversial Social Media History Requirement for All Foreign Tourists Entering the US

The Trump administration has unveiled a controversial new policy that would require all foreign tourists to provide their social media histories from the past five years before being allowed entry into the U.S. This notice, published in the Federal Register on Tuesday, mandates that new entrants, regardless of whether they require a visa, provide this data. This policy includes visitors from countries like the United Kingdom and Germany, where citizens currently do not need a visa to visit the U.S. These countries’ residents typically complete an Electronic System for Travel Authorizations (ESTA) to gain entry, but now this new measure could create an additional barrier for travellers.

The data collection will include email addresses, telephone numbers, and addresses used in the last five years, as well as family members’ names and details. This move by the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is in line with the Trump administration’s broader strategy to tighten U.S. borders and impose stricter immigration controls. The administration has already significantly restricted visa processes, including requiring some visa applicants to make their social media profiles public, a change that drew backlash from privacy advocates like the Electronic Frontier Foundation. These measures, they argue, are designed to monitor and suppress the online activity of foreign individuals, particularly students and other visitors.

In addition to the data collection, the Department of Homeland Security is also considering expanding these policies, including implementing online reviews for additional visa types, such as H-1B visa holders. These developments are coming at a time when the 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to be held in the U.S., which is expected to draw fans from all over the globe, including the UK and other countries where visa requirements have been waived.

The public has 60 days to comment on this proposal, and it is clear that these new data collection measures could pose significant hurdles for international visitors, further contributing to the growing perception of the U.S. as an unwelcoming destination.

Nevada’s Tourism Shock: Las Vegas Struggles Like Never Before

Las Vegas, the glittering heart of Nevada, has been hit hardest by this tourism collapse. The famous Las Vegas Strip is now a shadow of its former self, with international visitors dropping by over 12% in 2025. This decline is being felt deeply in the resort and casino industry, with hotel occupancy rates falling dramatically. Reports show that the once-bustling hotel lobbies are now eerily quiet, and the lack of international tourists is making it harder for local businesses to survive. The primary culprit? The staggering drop in Canadian visitors. As cross-border travel has plummeted due to the political climate and rising visa issues, Las Vegas, a city historically reliant on its international clientele, is struggling to regain its footing.

California’s Global Tourism Decline: A Crisis for Iconic Destinations

California, the land of sun, stars, and world-famous landmarks like Hollywood, is also feeling the full force of the 2025 tourism collapse. In the first half of the year, international visitors to California dropped by 1.43% compared to 2024. While this may seem small, the impact on the economy is enormous. Iconic spots like Los Angeles and San Francisco are seeing fewer tourists, and local businesses are paying the price. The cause? The U.S. government’s tough stance on immigration and visa policies has created a chilling effect on foreign visitors, especially from key markets in Europe and Asia. Moreover, the strong U.S. dollar is making the cost of visiting California even higher for foreign travellers, leading many to opt for more affordable destinations.

Florida Tourism Woes: A Big Loss for The Sunshine State

Florida, known for its sunny beaches and world-class theme parks, is facing its own tourism crisis. Tourist arrivals from Europe and Canada have dropped significantly in 2025, leading to severe losses for the state’s economy. The tourism slump is particularly devastating for areas like Orlando, which is heavily reliant on international tourists. Florida’s tourism industry has always thrived on visitors from overseas, but with the political rhetoric in Washington D.C. becoming increasingly anti-immigrant, many foreign tourists are choosing to vacation elsewhere. On top of that, the rising costs of flights, accommodations, and activities are pricing out budget-conscious travellers. With the summer season in full swing, Florida’s once-bustling tourist attractions are quieter than ever before.

Hawaii’s Struggle: A Tourist Paradise in Decline

Hawaii, often referred to as a paradise on Earth, is also feeling the sting of a sharp tourism decline. Once a popular destination for international travellers, Hawaii’s tourism industry has been significantly impacted by the U.S. slump. As the cost of flying to the islands increases, fewer international tourists are willing to make the long journey. This drop in tourism is compounded by global economic uncertainty and negative perceptions of the U.S. overseas. Hawaii, like many other tourism-dependent states, is seeing its visitor numbers fall sharply, and local businesses are struggling to stay afloat as a result. Despite being a beautiful and exotic destination, Hawaii’s tourism prospects for 2025 are grim.

The U.S. Border States: Canadian Visitors Vanish, Bringing Economic Ruin

The U.S. border states, including Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine, have been hit particularly hard by the collapse of Canadian tourism. Canada, which has long been one of the largest sources of visitors to the U.S., is seeing its outbound tourism to the country plummet in 2025. Political tensions, higher tariffs, and stringent visa policies are making it increasingly difficult for Canadians to visit. As a result, these border states, which rely heavily on cross-border tourism, are seeing massive declines in visitor numbers. The tourism slump is devastating for local economies, with businesses that have depended on Canadian tourists for decades now facing uncertain futures.

1. Direct Government Policy Barriers Fueling the Tourism Crisis

The most immediate and visible factors affecting U.S. tourism are the policy barriers set by the government that make it harder and more expensive for international visitors to enter the country.

A. Visa and Entry Complexity:
A primary issue is the lengthy visa processing times at U.S. consulates across the globe. Congressional Research Service (CRS) reports highlight that visa delays have stretched to several months, forcing many international tourists and business travellers to either cancel or postpone their trips to the U.S. This has led to a shift in tourist spending to countries with more accessible entry processes.

B. Rising Visa Fees:
In addition to delays, new visa integrity fees of up to $250 have been introduced, which significantly increase the cost of travel to the U.S. These rising costs make it less affordable for family groups, students, and budget-conscious travellers to consider the U.S. as a viable destination. In comparison, other destinations have simpler and cheaper entry requirements, further weakening the U.S.’s competitiveness in the global tourism market.

C. Enhanced Traveler Scrutiny:
With the introduction of more stringent border security measures, international visitors now face more extensive documentation requirements, including social media history and personal data, raising privacy concerns. This not only complicates the entry process but also contributes to the perception that the U.S. is an unwelcoming destination. The more difficult the entry process, the less likely visitors are to choose the U.S. for their vacation or business trip.

2. Underfunding of Brand USA – A Missed Marketing Opportunity

Brand USA is the public-private partnership responsible for promoting the U.S. as a top global travel destination. However, recent budget cuts have hindered its ability to compete with other countries investing heavily in destination marketing.

A. Reduced Funding for Global Campaigns:
Congress has significantly slashed the federal matching funds for Brand USA, dropping them from $100 million to a fraction of that amount. Without sufficient funding, the U.S. has been unable to sustain its global marketing campaigns, leaving room for competing countries to capture the attention of potential tourists. As a result, the U.S. has missed opportunities to attract international tourists, especially during events like the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 2028 Summer Olympics, which would otherwise generate millions in tourism revenue.

B. Missed Mega-Event Opportunities:
The lack of adequate funding for Brand USA also means that the U.S. is underperforming in its promotion of upcoming global events. These mega-events have the potential to bring a massive influx of international visitors and significantly boost the U.S. economy. However, without proper marketing, these events may fail to reach their potential, leading to a further decline in tourism.

3. The Economic Impact: Travel Trade Deficit and Lost Revenue

While policy barriers and marketing challenges contribute to the slump, the economic fallout from this tourism decline is even more alarming. The U.S. is facing a travel trade deficit, meaning that U.S. residents are spending more on foreign travel than foreign visitors are spending in the U.S.

A. Rising Travel Trade Deficit:
The Bureau of Economic Analysis (BEA) has reported a growing travel trade deficit, which is approaching a staggering $70 billion annually. This represents a historic shift from previous years, when the U.S. enjoyed a tourism surplus. Now, U.S. residents are spending significantly more on international travel than foreign tourists are spending in the U.S., directly affecting the balance of payments and weakening the U.S. economy.

B. Loss of Export Revenue:
Tourism is a major export service for the U.S., contributing billions of dollars annually. Official estimates suggest that every 1% decline in international visitor spending leads to an approximate $1.8 billion loss in export revenue. This is a substantial blow to the U.S. economy, especially in sectors like hospitality, retail, and airlines, which depend heavily on international tourists for revenue. The ongoing downturn threatens the livelihoods of millions of workers in these industries.

4. Geopolitical Tensions and Economic Headwinds Eroding U.S. Market Share

Finally, broader geopolitical tensions and economic headwinds are contributing to the decline in U.S. tourism.

A. The Strength of the U.S. Dollar:
The sustained strength of the U.S. dollar has made travel to the U.S. more expensive for international visitors. As the dollar strengthens, it reduces the purchasing power of foreign tourists, making the U.S. a less attractive destination compared to countries in Europe, Asia, or Latin America where travellers can get more value for their money.

B. Geopolitical Uncertainty and Negative Global Sentiment:
Tensions between the U.S. and key global partners, particularly in the Asia-Pacific region, have created negative sentiment toward U.S. travel. Visitors from countries like China, India, and Europe are increasingly hesitant to travel to the U.S. due to perceived risks and uncertainties surrounding visa policies, security measures, and political rhetoric. This geopolitical environment has compounded the existing challenges, reducing the U.S.’s appeal as a global tourism destination.

Major Source Market for International Tourists Arrival to US

The Impact of U.S. Immigration Policies on International Tourism

One of the biggest reasons for the 2025 U.S. tourism slump is the tightening of immigration and visa policies under the Trump administration. The government’s stance on stricter border control measures, heightened screening for travellers, and increased visa fees have made the U.S. a less attractive destination for international visitors. Visitors from Europe, Asia, and even neighbouring countries like Canada are now hesitant to visit, fearing delays, extra costs, and potential denial of entry. This political environment has severely damaged the U.S.’s image as a welcoming and accessible country for travellers.

Rising Travel Costs: U.S. Tourism Becomes Too Expensive for Many

Another key factor contributing to the tourism slump in the U.S. is the sharp rise in travel costs. Airfares are up, hotels are charging more, and even simple activities like sightseeing or eating out have become more expensive. The U.S. dollar’s strength has made it harder for international tourists to afford their trips. What was once a budget-friendly holiday destination is now increasingly out of reach for many. As the cost of travel continues to rise, tourists are choosing alternative destinations where they can get better value for their money.

The Role of Negative Global Perception and Political Climate

The negative global perception of the U.S., especially under the Trump administration, is another major factor behind the tourism slump. The rhetoric around immigration, travel bans, and the “America First” policies have created a chilling effect on international travel to the U.S. Many countries now view the U.S. as unwelcoming, and this perception has been exacerbated by the government’s stance on foreign visitors. As a result, international tourists are opting for countries with more open and friendly policies, further exacerbating the slump in U.S. tourism.

How the U.S. Travel Industry Is Responding to the Crisis

The U.S. travel industry is scrambling to respond to the crisis. Tourism boards, airlines, and local governments are doing their best to attract visitors, but it’s clear that this slump is not going to end quickly. Many states are now offering discounts, packages, and special promotions to try to lure tourists back. But the overall decline in international tourism, coupled with the rising costs of travel, makes it difficult for the U.S. to reclaim its position as the top tourist destination in the world.

Is the U.S. Tourism Industry Facing Permanent Damage?

The U.S. tourism industry is in crisis, and the 2025 slump shows no signs of easing. States like Nevada, California, Florida, and Hawaii are among the hardest hit, and with fewer international visitors, many businesses in these regions are struggling. The reasons behind this tourism collapse are multifaceted: tighter immigration policies, rising travel costs, a strong U.S. dollar, and a growing global perception of the U.S. as an unwelcoming destination. While domestic tourism remains strong, the U.S. may never fully recover its global status as a top tourist destination without significant policy changes and a shift in international perceptions. The U.S. tourism industry needs to act fast to reverse these trends, or the damage could be long-lasting.

The decline in international tourism to the U.S. in 2025 is driven by a combination of factors, many of which are linked to recent government policies. These policies have increased both the cost and complexity of visiting the United States, making it a less attractive destination for foreign visitors. The new Visa Integrity Fee, implemented by the U.S. Department of State and Department of Homeland Security, has added an additional US$250 charge for non-immigrant visa applicants, increasing the financial burden on international travellers.

Furthermore, the introduction of $250 national park fees for non-U.S. residents has significantly increased the cost of visiting U.S. national parks, a major attraction for international tourists. Starting January 2026, foreign visitors will face a US$100 surcharge to enter some of the most popular parks, such as Yellowstone and Yosemite, on top of the standard entrance fees. This change could deter travellers from choosing the U.S. for their vacations, as they seek more affordable options elsewhere (doi.gov).

With rising visa costs and the perception of a less welcoming environment, the U.S. risks losing its status as a premier travel destination unless these policies are reevaluated. These measures, alongside the economic challenges and geopolitical tensions, are contributing to a significant downturn in international tourism.