Growing Global Visa Backlash Against U.S. Citizens

How to Expedite Your U.S. Passport Application

Monica Cheru - Managing Editor

In a growing trend of reciprocal travel measures, Brazil announced it will require U.S. citizens to obtain visas starting April 10, 2025, ending a decade-long visa waiver.

The Brazilian government confirmed the change, stating Americans must apply online for eVisas, citing the need for “balanced diplomatic relations.”

This comes soon after Namibia introduced visas for U.S. citizens and 29 other countries effective April 1.

These measures, often framed as reciprocity, reflect broader geopolitical recalibrations.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio recently announced restrictions on foreign officials accused of facilitating illegal migration to the U.S., leveraging Section 212(a)(3)(C) of the Immigration and Nationality Act.

The U.S. has stringent entry protocols, including the Visa Waiver Program’s e-passport mandates and ongoing reviews under Executive Order 14161.

The U.S. recently issued a blanket ban on visas for South Sudan after the African country refused to accept the deportation of its citizens.

Analysts say that retaliations against U.S. President Donald Trump’s bullying and legally questionable actions could continue to snowball, shrinking U.S. citizens' privilege to roam the world at will.

Several nations in recent years have imposed new entry requirements on U.S. passport holders, signaling a shift in global mobility dynamics.

Turkey replaced its e-visa system in October 2023, mandating U.S. travelers to apply in person at Turkish diplomatic missions—a direct response to Washington’s visa policies for Turkish nationals.

Bolivia reinstated advance visa applications via consulates in June 2023, citing diplomatic tensions over alleged U.S. interference in domestic affairs.

Cameroon ended visa-free access for Americans in 2023, while Suriname replaced visa-on-arrival options with mandatory pre-travel e-tourist cards the same year.

The European Union is set to introduce the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) this year, requiring U.S. citizens to obtain pre-travel authorization—a step short of a visa but adding a layer of scrutiny.

As nations recalibrate entry rules, the Henley Passport Index—which ranks the U.S. passport 9th for travel freedom— may soon downgrade it as the era of unfettered access for U.S. travelers comes to an end.