The United Kingdom (UK) and Germany have issued updated travel advisories warning their citizens about strict entry policies in the United States, following incidents of European travellers being detained at the border. The move comes amid growing concerns about tightened immigration measures under former President Donald Trump’s influence, reports WION.
The UK Foreign Office has warned that travellers could face arrest or detention for failing to comply with US entry requirements, emphasising that entry rules are now being "strictly" enforced. “You should comply with all entry, visa, and other conditions of entry. The authorities in the US set and enforce entry rules strictly. You may be liable to arrest or detention if you break the rules,” the updated guidance states.
Germany has issued similar advice, cautioning its citizens that possession of a visa or an entry waiver does not guarantee access to the US. Recent incidents, including the detention of German nationals, have highlighted the issue. One traveller was reportedly held at the border for carrying tattoo equipment, further raising concerns about arbitrary enforcement.
Case of Rebecca Burke
The advisories come in the wake of the high-profile case of Rebecca Burke, a 28-year-old UK graphic artist who was detained for 19 days by US Immigration and Customs Enforcement due to a "visa mix-up." Her parents described her ordeal as deeply traumatic, recounting how she was transported in leg and waist chains. “She is not Hannibal Lecter,” said her father, Paul Burke, criticizing the excessive treatment.
Rebecca has since returned to the UK, but her case has sparked widespread outrage, with many questioning the severity of US border enforcement policies.
