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National parks might ask in 2026: Are you a U.S. citizen?
Parks and citizenship
If you’re planning to visit one of the 11 most popular national parks in the U.S., staff might ask a question that could be disquieting: Are you an American citizen? A spokesperson for the Department of the Interior said that the question is being posed only to confirm whether the visitor will have to pay a hefty nonresident fee. The Trump administration said in November that beginning Jan. 1 it would implement “America-first” entry fee policies. “U.S. residents will continue to enjoy affordable pricing, while nonresidents will pay a higher rate to help support the care and maintenance of America’s parks,” according to the announcement. “National Park Service staff are not checking immigration status, citizenship, or residency beyond what is necessary to confirm eligibility for a specific entrance fee or pass,” said Elizabeth Peace, spokesperson for the Department of the Interior.
Los Angeles Times
If you’re planning to visit one of the 11 most popular national parks in the U.S., staff might ask a question that could be disquieting: Are you an American citizen? A spokesperson for the Department of the Interior said that the question is being posed only to confirm whether the visitor will have to pay a hefty nonresident fee. The Trump administration said in November that beginning Jan. 1 it would implement “America-first” entry fee policies. “U.S. residents will continue to enjoy affordable pricing, while nonresidents will pay a higher rate to help support the care and maintenance of America’s parks,” according to the announcement. “National Park Service staff are not checking immigration status, citizenship, or residency beyond what is necessary to confirm eligibility for a specific entrance fee or pass,” said Elizabeth Peace, spokesperson for the Department of the Interior.
Los Angeles Times
