THE AFRICAN COURIER. Reporting Africa and its Diaspora! The African Courier is an international magazine published in Germany to report on Africa and the Diaspora African experience. The first issue of the bimonthly magazine appeared on the newsstands on 15 February 1998. The African Courier is a communication forum for European-African political, economic and cultural exchanges, and a voice for Africa in Europe.
Germany has updated its travel advisory for citizens visiting the United States following multiple reports of German nationals being detained at border entry points. The advisory warns that obtaining a visa or an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) does not guarantee entry, as final admission decisions rest with US border officials.
The revision comes after several German travellers were denied entry and subsequently detained. One notable case involves Fabian Schmidt, a legal US resident, who was stopped at Boston Logan International Airport upon returning from Europe. Reports indicate that he was held under poor conditions, raising concerns about the treatment of foreign visitors.
Another case is that of Jessica Brösche, a tattoo artist from Berlin, who attempted to enter the US from Mexico. Initially told she would only be detained for a short period, she ended up spending over six weeks in custody at a California detention centre. Similarly, Lucas Sielaff, a 25-year-old traveller, was held for two weeks before being deported back to Germany in early March after encountering issues at the border.
Germany’s Foreign Office advises that border officers may detain and deport travellers if they suspect visa violations, past overstays, or inconsistencies in travel information. The advisory does not prohibit travel but urges German citizens to be aware of stricter enforcement measures.
Typically, German passport holders can enter the US for up to 90 days without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program, provided they have an approved ESTA. However, given the recent detentions, travellers are encouraged to review the latest entry requirements carefully and ensure full compliance to avoid complications at U.S. borders.
What first-time travellers to the US should know about ESTA
- What is ESTA?
The Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is an online pre-screening process that allows eligible travellers from Visa Waiver Program countries, including Germany, to visit the US for tourism, business or transit without applying for a visa. - How to Apply?
German travellers must apply online at the official US Customs and Border Protection website (https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov/). The application requires personal details, passport information, travel plans and answers to security-related questions. - Processing Time and Cost
ESTA approval usually takes minutes but can take up to 72 hours, so it’s recommended to apply at least three days before departure. The application fee is $21, payable online via credit card or PayPal. - Validity and Duration of Stay
Once approved, ESTA is valid for two years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first. Each visit to the US can last up to 90 days, but travellers must not overstay, as this could lead to future entry bans. - Important Reminders
- Having ESTA does not guarantee entry into the US; border officers have the final say.
- Travellers should carry proof of return travel and details of their stay to avoid suspicion of intent to overstay.
- Those with previous visa denials, criminal records or past immigration violations may need to apply for a US visa instead of ESTA.
With the recent tightening of border controls, first-time visitors should ensure they meet all US entry requirements and prepare for possible questioning by immigration officers.
