The Blubber

As the U.S. ramps up immigration enforcement under President Donald Trump, both the United Kingdom and Germany have updated their travel advisories, cautioning citizens that a valid visa or ESTA authorization does not guarantee entry.

The revised warnings follow multiple incidents in which European travelers were detained, denied entry, or even arrested before being deported. Among the latest cases, two German nationals were stopped at the southern border earlier this week.

Germany’s Foreign Ministry confirmed it is looking into one of the cases and has involved its consulate in Boston to assist an affected individual.

“The final decision on whether someone is allowed into the U.S. rests with U.S. border authorities,” a spokesperson for Germany’s Foreign Office stated. The updated advisory emphasized that providing false information, having a criminal record, or even minor visa overstays from previous visits could result in arrest, deportation, or detention—with no legal recourse.

The U.K. has issued a similar caution, with its Foreign Office now warning: “You may be subject to arrest or detention if you fail to comply with the rules.”

Concerns in Europe are mounting over Trump’s executive orders, which have intensified visa scrutiny, border security measures, and immigration crackdowns. Recent cases, including the detainment of a Canadian woman and a British artist, have further highlighted the U.S.'s increasingly strict approach at entry points.

Despite holding valid travel documents, visitors are being reminded that U.S. border officials have the final authority—and being turned away remains a possibility.

Germany’s Foreign Office advises travelers to carry evidence of their return plans and be prepared for questioning upon arrival. Those who experience entry issues are encouraged to contact the U.S. Department of Homeland Security upon returning home.

The U.S. State Department reaffirmed its commitment to enforcing visa regulations and entry conditions.