Trump vs. Harris on International Travel and Visas
Skift Take
Whoever sits in the White House is going to influence the flow of travel into the U.S.
The next U.S. president is going to preside over the one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world and can influence how many travelers from abroad can come to the U.S.
Skift reviewed data on international travel from the U.S. Commerce Department and visa issuances from the U.S. State Department during the past two administrations.
The Covid-19 pandemic that began in March 2020, the last year of the Trump presidency, complicates the comparison. Keep in mind the following points:
For much of 2020 and 2021, countries around the world closed their borders. International travel into the U.S. was restricted: We focused more on the first three years of the Trump presidency, which weren't affected by Covid. In 2020 and 2021, the State Department had reduced visa processing operations at embassies and consulates. By the end of 2023, the U.S. had relaxed all restrictions and requirements on international travelers. In addition, other countries also relaxed their restrictions and requirements. Internat