KEY POINTS
- U.S. Customs and Border Protection proposes mandatory social media disclosure for ESTA visa-waiver travelers.
- Travelers would need to provide five years of social media history, expanding identity screening.
- Tourism groups warn the proposal could deter millions and harm U.S. travel revenue.
The U.S. government is proposing a change to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) that would require some international visitors to submit social media information.
This requirement would apply to travelers from the 42 countries eligible for visa-free entry under the Visa Waiver Program.
Under the draft rule, ESTA applicants must disclose social media handles used over the past five years.
Officials say the expanded data collection would enhance security screening of visitors.
The rule would also mandate additional personal details, such as email addresses and contacts, to bolster vetting.
This is part of a broader Department of Homeland Security effort to tighten border controls.
Travel industry groups and analysts have expressed concern about the proposal’s impact on global tourism.
A survey by a major tourism council found many frequent travelers view mandatory social media disclosure as intrusive and off-putting.
Industry representatives warn the policy could damage the United States’ image as a welcoming destination.
Some travelers said they might skip U.S. trips if social media data were required.
Economic analyses estimate the rule could reduce international arrivals and tourism spending.
Potential losses include billions of dollars and tens of thousands of travel-related jobs.
The proposal is open for public comment, with a deadline currently set in early February.
Officials have not finalised the rule, and revisions are possible before implementation.
Critics argue the expanded requirements extend beyond typical entry screening and raise privacy issues.
There are also calls for careful review of how social media data will be used in decision-making.
Some European authorities have suggested they may consider reciprocal measures if the U.S. adopts the proposal.
Reciprocity could affect travel patterns and policy alignment with allied countries.
U.S. tourism officials are aware of the concerns and emphasise that no final decisions have been made.
They stress the process includes feedback from industry and the public.
The broader context of expanded data collection reflects ongoing government efforts to adapt vetting to evolving security challenges.
Additional measures targeting biometric and digital information are also under discussion.
If enacted, the social media disclosure rule would represent a significant shift in how the U.S. screens short-term visitors.
Travelers and industry stakeholders alike are watching the process closely as discussions continue.
