The USA, a top global travel destination, is experiencing an unexpected dip in international visitors, with a notable decline in travellers from India. According to the US Commerce Department’s National Travel and Tourism Office (NTTO), June 2025 marked a break in a decades-long trend where every June since 2001, except during the COVID-19 period, saw an increase in visitors compared to the previous year.
This year, however, Indian visitor numbers dropped to 2,10,000 in June 2025, an 8% decrease from 2,30,000 in June 2024. Data from July 2025 shows a further 5.5% decline compared to July 2024.
This downturn is part of a broader decline in international tourism to the US. Times of India reported that NTTO data indicates a 6.2% drop in total non-US resident international visitors in June 2025 compared to June 2024, with declines of 7% in May, 8% in March, and 1.9% in February. January and April were exceptions, with increases of 4.7% and 1.3%, respectively.
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India remains the fourth-largest source market for US visitors, with the UK leading as the top overseas source, followed by India. Mexico and Canada, benefiting from land borders, are the top two markets, while Brazil ranks fifth.
The decline in Indian visitors is particularly evident among students. A leading travel agent told The Times of India, “We are seeing a very visible impact on the student segment this year due to the delay in visa issuance, even after people securing college admission.” These delays are disrupting travel plans for Indian students, a significant portion of the US visitor demographic. While multiple factors may contribute to the decline, stricter visa policies under US President Donald Trump’s second term are likely playing a role.
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