Many Western countries warn citizens about entering the US

The move comes as President Donald Trump's administration tightens immigration policies in the first two months of his term.

In Germany, the foreign ministry updated its advice on March 18 after three German citizens were detained at the US border. Two have been deported, while the other case is being processed by the consulate general in Boston.

German officials stressed that even with a visa or approval through the ESTA visa waiver system, the decision to enter still rests with US border guards.

UK passports after Brexit. Photo: GI

The UK issued a similar advisory on March 19, stressing that breaching entry rules could result in arrest or detention. Previously, information on the UK government website only referred to the strict rules in general but did not explicitly warn of legal consequences.

Denmark updated its travel guidance on March 20, specifically warning about transgender rights. The Trump administration issued an executive order requiring that visas only have two gender options: male or female. Travelers whose passports show “X” or who have transitioned are advised to contact the US Embassy before traveling.

Finland has issued a similar warning, asking dual nationals with passports bearing an "X" gender marker to verify their eligibility for entry with US authorities in advance.

Meanwhile, Australia stressed that US authorities have the right to refuse entry for any reason under its laws, even if the visitor has a valid visa or ESTA.

Canada did not issue a new advisory but reminded citizens of the rules for staying up to six months in the United States without a visa, noting that Canadian permanent residents may need to apply for a nonimmigrant visa to enter.

In response to this wave of warnings, US Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated: "No one has an absolute right to apply for a student visa or a green card. When an application is submitted, we reserve the right to refuse for any reason under US law." It is unclear whether the above travel warnings will continue to be adjusted in the near future.

Ngoc Anh (according to Newsweek, CBS)