The United States Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have introduced a controversial proposal mandating visa-free tourists to submit five years of social media history as a new condition for entry. This significant policy shift, published in the Federal Register, would impact citizens from approximately 40 countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, and European Union nations.
The proposed regulation expands the existing Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) requirements beyond the current $40 fee and basic biographical information. Applicants would now need to provide comprehensive digital footprints including all social media identifiers used over the past five years, telephone numbers from the previous decade, and extended family member details. The measure specifically affects those eligible for 90-day visa-free visits under the ESTA program.
This initiative stems from President Donald Trump’s January executive order titled ‘Protecting the United States From Foreign Terrorists and Other National Security and Public Safety Threats.’ The administration has previously implemented similar requirements for student and H1B skilled worker visas, now extending digital scrutiny to tourist admissions. Officials cite enhanced national security screening as the primary motivation, particularly following recent security incidents including a Washington DC shooting involving an Afghan suspect.
The proposal emerges as the United States prepares for major international events including the 2026 FIFA World Cup (co-hosted with Canada and Mexico) and the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics, potentially affecting millions of prospective visitors. A 60-day public comment period has commenced, during which privacy advocates and immigration experts are voicing substantial concerns.
Digital rights organizations including the Electronic Frontier Foundation have condemned the measure as potentially exacerbating civil liberties violations. Immigration law firm Fragomen warns of practical consequences including extended ESTA processing times and administrative complications. The proposal follows documented declines in international tourism to the United States, with industry analysts noting a concerning trend of reduced visitor spending and Canadian boycott movements protesting Trump administration policies.