US May Require Tourists’ Five-Year Social Media History for Entry
Tourists planning to visit the United States may face new requirements regarding their social media activity. A proposal by American officials suggests that visitors from eligible countries could be asked to provide a five-year history of their social media usage as part of the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) application process.
Overview of the Proposal
This initiative targets individuals from approximately 40 countries, including the UK, Ireland, France, Australia, and Japan. These travelers can currently visit the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa by completing the ESTA form. The proposal surfaced in the Federal Register, the official government journal, under the guidance of Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS).
Details of the New Requirements
- Applicants must supply their social media usernames from the last five years.
- They will also be required to provide their telephone numbers and email addresses used over the past five and ten years respectively.
- Details about family members may also be requested.
The existing ESTA application currently only demands limited information and costs $40 (£30) for processing. The initiative coincides with a broader effort to enhance national security, as cited in an executive order from January on protecting the U.S. from foreign threats.
Implications for Tourists
Analysts warn that this could deter potential visitors and raise concerns about personal digital privacy. Critics, including representatives from digital rights organizations, express that these requirements could infringe on civil liberties. Moreover, legal experts suggest that such measures may lead to longer processing times for ESTA applications.
Impact on Future Tourism
The U.S. is gearing up for a substantial increase in international tourism, particularly with upcoming events like the men’s football World Cup in 2026 and the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. However, recent trends indicate that American tourism policies are affecting visitor numbers. For example, Canada, which traditionally contributes a significant portion of U.S. tourists, has seen a decline in traveler numbers, with many citing protests against U.S. tariffs as a reason.
Current Tourism Trends
- 10 consecutive months of decline in Canadian travelers to the U.S.
- Canadians were historically about 25% of international visitors, contributing over $20 billion annually to the U.S. economy.
As the public is invited to comment on the proposed ESTA changes for 60 days, the final decision will likely shape the future of travel regulations for entering the United States. With increasing scrutiny on foreign tourists, the landscape of U.S. tourism is entering a critical phase.
