Survey Reveals Travel Anxiety Among Immigrants in the U.S.

Fear of Immigration Enforcement

A nationwide survey conducted by the Kaiser Family Foundation in partnership with The New York Times reveals that fear of immigration enforcement is significantly impacting the lives of immigrants in the United States. Travel has become a major concern, with many immigrants avoiding trips to minimize potential encounters with immigration authorities.

Key Findings

Approximately 27% of immigrants reported avoiding domestic and international travel due to concerns about immigration enforcement. This statistic underscores the pervasive anxiety that many individuals experience regarding their legal status.

Impact on Immigrant Communities

The survey indicates that nearly 30% of immigrants have altered or canceled travel plans to evade attention from immigration officials. Notably, this anxiety is not confined to undocumented immigrants; individuals with legal status, including H-1B visa holders and naturalized citizens, also expressed similar concerns.

H-1B Visa Holders’ Travel Concerns

Among H-1B visa holders, about one-third admitted to refraining from travel due to immigration-related fears. This change coincides with recent policy shifts. In July 2025, the U.S. State Department halted remote and third-country renewals for H-1B and H-4 visas, compelling applicants to return to their home countries for processing.

Stricter Visa Application Processes

In September 2025, President Donald Trump signed an executive order implementing a $100,000 fee on new H-1B applications. Additionally, the administration has broadened social media vetting, scrutinizing applicants’ online activity during the review process. These measures have placed immense pressure on U.S. consulates and embassies, particularly in India, where visa appointment delays now extend up to 2027.

Broader Impact on Undocumented Immigrants

The survey findings reveal that travel anxiety extends beyond H-1B visa holders. Approximately two-thirds of undocumented immigrants reported avoiding both domestic and international travel. This heightened fear follows allegations that the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) has been sharing travel data, including passenger lists, with Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).

The Need for Caution

Many immigrants are now attempting to remain under the radar due to intensified scrutiny at airports, borders, and other travel checkpoints. Despite these challenges, the survey indicates that most immigrants still express a desire to immigrate to the U.S. if given the opportunity again.

Conclusion

The insights derived from this nationally representative survey of 1,805 immigrant adults currently residing in the U.S. underscore the ongoing challenges faced by immigrant communities in navigating their daily lives amid the looming fears of immigration enforcement.