- 3+ European travelers detained 12-45 days at US borders since January
- Tourists report unclear charges despite valid travel authorizations
- UCLA warns foreign students about spring break travel risks
- Detention facilities face criticism for treatment of visa holders
Recent months have seen a troubling pattern emerge at US border crossings. Multiple European tourists with approved ESTA authorizations report being detained for weeks without clear explanations. Immigration advocates confirm this marks a significant shift from previous decades of border enforcement practices.
The case of German national Lucas Sielaff highlights growing concerns. Despite entering the US legally on January 27, his brief trip to Mexico for affordable veterinary services led to 16 days in detention. Border agents allegedly accused him of violating his 90-day visa terms during a routine re-entry attempt.
San Diego’s Otay Mesa Detention Center has become a focal point, housing multiple detained tourists. Jessica Brösche’s 45-day confinement included solitary confinement, while Canadian Jasmine Mooney’s 12-day detention occurred despite her valid work visa. These incidents coincide with increased CBP scrutiny of repeat border crossers.
Industry analysts note a 17% drop in ESTA applications from Western Europe since February. Travel insurance providers now offer specialized policies covering detention risks. The University of California’s travel advisory reflects broader institutional concerns about shifting re-entry requirements.
Regional impacts are particularly evident in border cities. Tijuana tourism businesses report 30% fewer same-day US visitors since January. Cross-border medical tourism – previously a $800M annual industry – faces collapse as patients fear detention risks.
Legal experts emphasize that ESTA authorization doesn’t guarantee entry. CBP retains full discretion under current regulations. However, the prolonged detention of visa waiver travelers represents a new enforcement approach drawing international criticism.
As detention-related lawsuits mount, the tourism sector braces for lasting impacts. European travel agencies now include US entry risk disclaimers in bookings, while alternative destinations like Canada and New Zealand see increased interest from cautious travelers.