The US tourism industry faced a big slowdown in late 2025 as international arrivals fell, somehow halting the post-pandemic recovery efforts. According to data provided by the National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO), there has been a significant reduction in the number of overseas visitors, especially from such areas as Western Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean. The drops happened in the third and fourth quarters of 2025, with the main months being September, October, and November.

While domestic travel continued to rise, international visitation remained below pre-pandemic levels. The downturn raised concerns for US tourism, especially as the industry had shown signs of strong recovery earlier in the year.

Significant Decline in Overseas Arrivals

According to NTTO data, the most significant drop in overseas arrivals occurred in September 2025, where the number of overseas visitors declined by 7.7 percent compared to the previous year. In October, the decline lessened to 3.1 percent, and in November, the drop was recorded at 3.5 percent year-over-year. This downward trend highlighted the challenge of fully restoring international tourism to its pre-pandemic levels.

In comparison, Canada and Mexico remained strong sources of international visitation, with cross-border travel to the US showing steady growth. However, overseas visitors, those coming from regions outside North America, continued to exhibit lower numbers, reinforcing concerns about the long-term sustainability of tourism recovery.

European and African Declines Impact US Tourism

The decline in visitation from Western Europe (down 5.5 percent) and Africa (down 15.6 percent) was particularly noteworthy. These regions had been some of the strongest sources of international visitors to the United States prior to the pandemic. The decrease from Africa was particularly stark, reflecting potential changes in travel behaviour or increased challenges related to visa regulations, as well as the broader economic uncertainty affecting many African countries.

Similarly, the Caribbean saw a decline of 6.6 percent in November 2025, further highlighting a regional tourism downturn. For the US to remain competitive in attracting Caribbean visitors, authorities may need to focus on improving regional connectivity and addressing any barriers to travel.

A Bright Spot: Growing Arrivals from Select Regions

Despite the general decline in overseas visitation, some regions reported positive growth in international arrivals to the United States. The Middle East, South America, and Central America (excluding Mexico) saw an increase in visitors during the same period.

For instance, arrivals from the Middle East were up by 7.5 percent, while Central America experienced a 4.3 percent increase in visitors. Notably, Israel, Guatemala, and Costa Rica led the charge, with Israel seeing a 21.2 percent increase in visitors in November 2025. Similarly, South Korea and Japan showed promising increases, with South Korea up by 9.2 percent and Japan increasing by 11.5 percent during the same period.

These regions, particularly the Middle East and Central America, seem to be growing in importance as source markets for US tourism. The increases in visitors from these regions could signify strengthened economic conditions, better regional connectivity, or more effective marketing campaigns targeting specific traveller segments.

Declining Visitation from Key Overseas Markets

Among the top overseas markets, the United Kingdom, Brazil, India, and Germany, most saw year-over-year declines in November 2025. The UK saw a 1.8 percent decline, while Brazil experienced an 8.5 percent drop. India’s visitation was down by 9.2 percent, and Germany saw a decrease of 8.2 percent in visitors compared to the previous year. These declines could point to increased travel restrictions, higher visa hurdles, and economic pressures in these regions.

On the other hand, countries such as Colombia and Argentina saw increased arrivals, with Colombia seeing a 13.4 percent increase and Argentina growing by 5.5 percent. This trend underscores how targeted regional marketing and strategic partnerships could help the US overcome the overall drop in international visitors.

Impact of Travel Restrictions and Visa Challenges

A key factor in the decline of international visitation could be attributed to travel restrictions and visa hurdles. Following changes made during the previous administration, including steep new visa fees and heightened travel restrictions, potential visitors from many regions, particularly Western Europe and Africa, may be deterred by the increased complexities of entry to the United States. These factors continue to affect visa processing times and entry requirements, creating a barrier for some international travellers.

The decline in visitor numbers could also be linked to the uncertainty around border entry policies in the US, contributing to travellers’ reluctance to commit to trips, particularly long-haul travel, given concerns over potential delays or additional documentation required.

A Call for Action to Boost US Tourism Recovery

As international arrivals continue to decline, the US tourism sector faces significant challenges in achieving a full recovery. While Mexico and Canada continue to contribute strong visitor numbers, overseas visitation remains sluggish, particularly from Europe and Africa. Growth from regions like the Middle East and Central America offers hope, but a broader strategy to address visa challenges, regional barriers, and tourism restrictions will be crucial to bringing in more international visitors.

With targeted marketing, improved visa facilitation, and better regional partnerships, the United States can still unlock significant potential for international tourism growth in the years to come.

The post Travel to the US Declines in Late 2025, But Growth from Middle East and Central America Offers Hope appeared first on Travel And Tour World.