‘Don’t go to the US – not with Trump in charge’: the UK tourist with a valid visa detained by ICE for six weeks

February 21, 2026 at 01:00AM

‘Don’t go to the US – not with Trump in charge’: the UK tourist with a valid visa detained by ICE for six weeks

A UK tourist with a valid visa was detained by U.S. immigration authorities for six weeks, sparking concerns about travel security measures and their impact on travelers. The woman, Karen Newton, describes being shackled, transported, and held for an extended period despite having a valid visa, highlighting anxieties among international tourists.

Her ordeal occurred amid growing scrutiny of U.S. border and immigration practices, with travelers reporting delays and detentions that disrupt carefully planned trips. Newton says the experience has left her feeling unsafe about future travel to the United States, emphasizing the broader anxiety faced by tourists.

Advocates are calling for clearer visa processes and greater transparency in enforcement to prevent similar incidents. The case underscores ongoing tensions between immigration policy and tourism, as travelers weigh the risks of visiting the U.S. against potential disruption to itineraries.