Recent reports of German citizens being detained upon arrival in the United States represent isolated incidents, according to Metin Hakverdi, the German government’s transatlantic coordinator. While these cases are being taken “very seriously” and are prompting active engagement from Berlin, the vast majority of German citizens traveling to the U.S. continue to experience few issues.
Hakverdi acknowledged that prospective travelers shouldn’t be fearful of entering the United States. However, the new requirement for visa applicants to make their social media accounts publicly accessible has generated considerable uncertainty and concern.
The coordinator noted a discernible shift in sentiment, observing, “Many are giving more thought to traveling to the United States than they did to the inauguration of Donald Trump”. This apprehension has reportedly contributed to a decline in passenger numbers from Germany and Europe heading to the U.S. He compared the current situation to the ongoing trade dispute with the U.S., suggesting a period of volatility and uncertainty.
Particular concern is being voiced among students, researchers and academics applying for visas to study in the States, driven by intensified scrutiny of their social media activity. Hakverdi reported receiving numerous inquiries from these individuals experiencing significant anxiety.
Even participants in the Parliamentary Sponsorship Programme, a partnership between the German Bundestag and the U.S. Congress, are expressing reservations about their planned trips, questioning their ability to secure visa interview appointments and fearing potential visa denials based on past social media posts. Although all individuals supported by the German government ultimately were able to travel, the process proved challenging and has reportedly damaged the image of the United States. The coming months will be crucial in determining whether this instability represents a temporary fluctuation or a new, ongoing reality.