American economy suffering due to strict tourist visa process Posted by Olerato Ramafsi on 25 October 2022 Recent studies show that America’s low prioritisation of visitor visa processing is severely hindering its economic recovery. According to a new analysis released by U.S. Travel Association economists, an estimated 6.6 million potential visitors have opted not to travel to America with a projected loss of 11.6 billion dollars in tourist expenditure. ‘Outrageous wait times send a message to travellers that the United States is closed for business,’ said U.S. Travel Association President and CEO Geoff Freeman. Wait times for visitor visa interviews now exceed 400 days for first-time applicants from top source markets – an immense deterrent that is undercutting America’s global competitiveness – sending millions of potential visitors and billions in traveller spending to other nations. ‘Excessive visa delays are essentially a travel ban – no one is going to wait 1-2 years for an interview with a U.S. government official to gain permission to visit the United States,’ Freeman added. ‘Our new research shows that millions of potential visitors will simply choose other destinations – destinations that effectively compete for their business.’ ‘With a recession looming on the horizon, the United States simply cannot afford to turn away billions of dollars in visitor spending,’ said Freeman. ‘The Obama administration effectively addressed a similar problem and we call on the Biden administration to do the same.’ Picture: Getaway Gallery Follow us on social media for more travel news, inspiration and guides. You can also tag us to be featured. TikTok Instagram Facebook Twitter ALSO READ: India sends the highest volume of tourists to South Africa from Asia Related Posts Cape Town’s sustainability: Leading the way in environmental initiatives 1 June 2023 As National Environmental Month commences in South Africa, Cape Town stands proudly at the forefront... read more Kapama to host Safari Guide of the Year Awards 2023 1 June 2023 Kapama Private Game Reserve near Hoedspruit will host this year’s Safari Guide of the Year... read more Blood Lions relaunches for public viewing on YouTube 1 June 2023 Award-winning documentary feature film Blood Lions has been relaunched on YouTube for public viewing, creating... read more PREV ARTICLE NEXT ARTICLE
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