Booking.com CEO Urges U.S. to Simplify Tourist Entry

Glenn Fogel, CEO of Booking Holdings, called on U.S. officials to streamline entry processes for foreign visitors, citing a 3.8% drop in international arrivals year-over-year, with July down by 5.1%.

Fogel criticized border delays and staffing shortages at airports, warning these inefficiencies may worsen ahead of major events like the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics.

He also flagged recent visa policy changes, including a $250 refundable “visa integrity fee”, as potential deterrents for travelers. Such fees, coupled with rising wait times, are discouraging visitors.

Industry players like Airbnb and Expedia report similar declines and stress the urgency of improving visitor experience at entry points to support inbound tourism.

Fogel’s remarks spotlight the need for investment in airport infrastructure, staffing, and smarter visa regimes to reverse the downward trend in foreign tourism.

The message is clear: If the U.S. hopes to leverage upcoming global events to reignite travel confidence, fundamental logistical enhancements are essential.