While acknowledging that Friday’s placement of immigration
restrictions on six additional countries is not a travel ban, the U.S. Travel
Association is concerned that an unwelcoming message could be a drag on inbound
travel.
Immigrant visas were restricted for Kyrgyzstan, Myanmar,
Eritrea and Nigeria. That type of visa is given to people seeking to live in
the U.S. permanently. Sudan and Tanzania had diversity visas (a.k.a. the green
card lottery) suspended.
“It is important to note that the new policy primarily
relates to those seeking to immigrate to the U.S. as residents -- as opposed to
temporary visitors -- and broadly describing it as a ‘travel ban’ isn’t wholly
accurate,” U.S. Travel Association CEO Roger Dow said.
“While the countries affected by the expanded policy
represent a very small fraction of visitation to the United States, restricting
entry to the U.S. carries a negative perception that threatens the reputation
of our country as an attractive and welcoming destination for global business
and leisure travelers.”
In a message to members, U.S. Tour Operators Association CEO
Terry Dale likewise said that “it is important to note that this announcement
is not a complete ban on travel,” as nonimmigrant visas, which allow temporary
travel to the United States, are unaffected.
“Safety and security are paramount for USTOA and our
members. Additionally, it is imperative that we strike the right balance
between ensuring the safety and security of our country while continuing to
preserve it as a welcoming destination,” Dale said.
“Our industry is an essential economic driver for the U.S.
economy, and ensuring its continued growth is imperative.”