U.S. Travel Association forecasts 6.3% decline in international visitor spending in 2026

On November 11, 2026, the U.S. Travel Association forecast that, after inflation adjustment, international visitors' spending in the U.S. in 2026 will fall 6.3% year over year to $163 billion, 25% lower than the 2019 level, a decrease of nearly $11 billion. The association said U.S. international inbound arrivals will not recover to the 2019 level until 2030, and called on Congress to pass government funding, ensure pay for TSA and air traffic control personnel, restore full funding for Brand USA in the next Congress, and expand visa processing.