The latest advisory highlights a significant trend among several states—including Alabama, Arizona, Utah, Indiana, South Carolina, and Georgia—that have enacted legislation aimed at combating illegal immigration. These laws empower police officers to inquire about an individual’s immigration status and to detain those suspected of being in the country unlawfully. Travelers are thus urged to carry their documentation at all times, ready to present it upon request from law enforcement.
Since last spring, Ireland’s travel guidance for the United States has expanded to include specific advice for transgender travelers. It notes that the ESTA and visa application processes require individuals to declare their sex, which must reflect what U.S. authorities term the traveler’s biological sex at birth.
“Previous convictions in the United States, misleading information about the purpose of your stay on your visa or ESTA application, or even a minor overstay can have serious repercussions,” warns Ireland’s Department of Foreign Affairs. Nevertheless, they reassure that the vast majority of travelers do not face such difficulties.
Netherlands
While the Dutch Ministry of Foreign Affairs still classifies the United States as a “green” safety level, its travel advice was updated in October to reflect increased entry regulations for foreign visitors. Citizens are advised to double-check the entry requirements before traveling. Additionally, it to mentions that as of January 20, 2025, the U.S. government will officially recognize only two genders.
The Netherlands also urges its citizens to maintain vigilance in crowded areas, including major public events and transportation systems. Furthermore, it notes that demonstrations are common in larger U.S. cities, which can, at times, escalate into violence.
New Zealand
In a notable shift from the trend among other countries, New Zealand has actually raised its travel advisory level regarding the United States. As of November 2024, it moved the U.S. to Level 2, advising citizens to “exercise increased caution,” a warning that remains active today.
This advisory highlights that the United States experiences a “higher incidence of violent crime and firearm possession than in New Zealand,” flagging the risks associated with active shooter incidents and petty crime. Similar to Australia, New Zealand advises its citizens to register if they plan to stay longer than 30 days and to ensure their photo IDs meet Real ID standards. The site further emphasizes that “the U.S. government has stringent regulations for entry and stay,” indicating travelers may encounter heightened scrutiny upon arrival.
Portugal
Portugal’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs has recently updated its travel guidance for citizens heading to the United States, stating: “The granting of an ESTA or visa does not automatically ensure entry into the USA. The final decision is always at the discretion of the border officer upon entry into U.S. territory.” It also advises non-binary travelers to fill out forms and provide declarations aligning with their gender identity at birth upon arrival.
Additionally, the Portuguese government has identified specific neighborhoods, including parts of New York City, Washington, DC, Boston, Philadelphia, Baltimore, and the San Francisco Bay Area, as areas of heightened safety risk. This guidance was last revised in October 2025.
United Kingdom
The United Kingdom first revised its travel advisory for British nationals traveling to the United States last February, emphasizing that “U.S. authorities set and enforce entry rules.” A month later, the language was tightened to clarify that these rules are enforced “strictly,” and this remains the current stance on the advisory site.
