by Lacey Pfalz
Last updated: 9:45 AM ET, Wed May 20, 2026
While international visitation continues to decline in the United States, a trend that began in early 2025, a recent survey of international visitors to the U.S. published by the U.S. Travel Association found that those that did visit left with a far more favorable opinion toward America.
The survey, conducted by YouGov, polled over 1,200 people who’d recently visited the United States within the past six months. Respondents were from eight key international markets: Argentina, Brazil, Canada, France, Germany, India, South Korea and the United Kingdom.
The data found that 83% of international visitors felt welcome during their time in the United States, and 61% left with a more favorable opinion of the nation.
The vast majority—at 91%—were satisfied with their recent trip. Just over half—at 56%—reported an improved perception of U.S. safety. Forty-eight percent of respondents also felt more supportive of security policies after visiting the United States.
More than three-quarters of international visitors reported shopping at a small business. These interactions with small businesses and local communities led to higher levels of satisfaction and welcoming experiences.
“We're in a moment when confidence and perception are shaping traveler decisions," said Geoff Freeman, President and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association. “Travel is our greatest public diplomacy tool. Every international visitor who has a positive experience becomes America’s greatest ambassador.”
International visitation to the United States has been an increasingly concerning issue since the beginning of last year. In 2025, international visitation dropped a total of 6%, the largest (and only) decrease since the COVID-19 pandemic. Some key international traveler markets, such as Canada, dropped over 20%.
It’s a trend that seems to continue this year. The most recent data from April shows over 14% decrease in international visitor arrivals, sparking fears that major global events like the FIFA 2026 World Cup, which was expected to boost American tourism, might be underwhelming in terms of international visitation and spending.
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