A growing list of countries is tightening their borders against American travellers, with Brazil now officially joining nations like Russia, China, Egypt, India, and Cuba in requiring visas from U.S. citizens. Once seen as hassle-free destinations, many of these countries now demand full documentation and pre-approval before entry, signalling a major shift in global travel norms for Americans.
As of April 2025, Brazil reinstated visa requirements for U.S. passport holders, ending six years of visa-free travel. Americans now need to apply online for an e-visa before arriving, which includes a processing fee, documentation, and several days of waiting. Brazilian authorities say the change is about fairness. While Americans could enter Brazil without a visa, Brazilians still face strict U.S. visa rules. “This is about reciprocity,” said a Brazilian official.
This is not an isolated case. Russia continues to require detailed visa applications for Americans, with longer wait times and increased rejections, especially in the current tense geopolitical climate. Egypt, too, has kept its visa-on-arrival policy but tightened enforcement. Travelers must show proof of funds, hotel bookings, and a clear reason for visiting.
China has made the visa process more complex, requiring in-person interviews, more documentation, and often shorter validity periods for Americans. This move is widely viewed as a response to rising diplomatic tensions between the two superpowers.
India allows e-visas for Americans, but travelers must still go through identity verification, pre-approval, and biometric checks at entry points. Meanwhile, Cuba, already a complicated destination due to U.S. restrictions, requires a tourist card and a legal reason for travel, as pure tourism remains banned for Americans under U.S. law.
In the Caribbean, where Americans traditionally enjoyed easy travel, things are also changing. Jamaica, the Bahamas, and the Dominican Republic still allow visa-free entry but have introduced tougher entry checks.
In Jamaica, solo travellers without hotel bookings or return flights are facing more scrutiny at the border. This is part of the government’s efforts to stop human trafficking and monitor overstays.
In the Bahamas, travellers especially those staying in short-term rentals like Airbnbs or arriving by private boat—are being asked for more details and pre-clearance forms before arrival.
The Dominican Republic has launched a new digital entry-exit system requiring all travellers to complete an online form with accommodation and trip details. Immigration officers now verify this information at the airport, making the process more formal than before.
These new rules mark a turning point for American travellers. While U.S. citizens still enjoy strong passport power globally, many countries are rethinking how they handle U.S. visitors. Some cite security concerns, others digital upgrades, but many are responding directly to U.S. visa policies.
The message is clear: the days of casual, last-minute international trips for Americans are ending. Visa applications, online forms, and tighter checks are becoming the new normal—even in countries that once welcomed Americans without question.
