Traveling with a US passport was once an easygoing experience at many destinations, but in recent times more and more countries are making it difficult to get in, sometimes due to political reasons, security, or reciprocity. The US has imposed travel restrictions on dozens of countries recently and some of them have responded by making it harder for Americans to enter. I have gone through news, travel forums, and other sources to find out what changes have occurred during the past year or so. Here is a list of seven places that are no longer easy for US tourists to visit.
The Schengen Area (30 European Countries)
Starting late 2025 with the Entry/Exit System and ETIAS authorization kicking in by 2026, Americans now face biometric scans on arrival and a mandatory online pre-approval (€7 fee) for visa-free trips. It’s like ESTA but for Europe, meaning no approval, no boarding the plane.
The United Kingdom Rolled Out Mandatory ETA
Starting early 2025, the UK introduced an Electronic Travel Authorization for Americans on short visits, similar to ESTA but in reverse. It’s a quick online form with a small fee, but forum users warn that forgetting it means no boarding, thus making spontaneous London trips a thing of the past.
Niger Banned New Visas for US Citizens
In late 2025, Niger went drastic by permanently halting new visas for Americans in retaliation to the expanded US travel ban. It’s a bold move from a country already tough to visit, but it shuts the door completely for now unless things cool down.
Iran
Long-standing tensions mean Americans face strict visa rules, often requiring guided tours and government approval. Recent advisories highlight arbitrary detention risks, making solo travel nearly impossible.
Brazil Reinstated Visa Requirements
Brazil, after 4 years of giving visa-free access to Americans, reinstated the e-visa in April 2025. It is a reciprocity move after the US made some restrictions for the Brazilian citizens. Travelers on the forums are complaining that the new step and fee are ruining their romantic trips to Rio or the Amazon.
China Tightened Scrutiny and Limits
While tourist visas are back post-pandemic, Americans face extra questioning, longer processing, and occasional denials amid tensions. Forum posts mention more paperwork and uncertainty, making planning a Great Wall trip riskier.
Russia Increased Restrictions and Risks
Visa rules were already strict, but in 2025, political fallout led to more bans on US travelers and sudden policy shifts. Many advise against it altogether due to safety and entry unpredictability.
Canada Increased Border Scrutiny and Advisories
Amid tensions, Canada ramped up questions and checks for Americans crossing by land or air, plus travel advisories highlighting risks. Forum posts mention more secondary inspections and proof-of-funds requests, turning quick Niagara trips into potential delays.
North Korea
US passport holders need special validation from the State Department for any visit, basically only for journalists or humanitarian work. The ongoing travel ban makes tourist trips off-limits.
India Tightened Visa Processing and Fees
India raised the fees for e-visa and implemented stricter background checks for US applicants in 2025, which resulted in longer waiting times. Reciprocity vibes are strong here, indeed; forums are flooded with tales of extra documents required, thus making the plans for visiting the Taj Mahal demand more patience.
Venezuela Imposed Reciprocal Restrictions
In response to US policies, Venezuela limited or complicated entry for Americans, including visa requirements and heightened scrutiny. It’s already a tough destination, but recent changes have forums advising extreme caution or skipping altogether.
