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US could ask foreign tourists for five-year social media history before entry

December 10, 2025

The Trump administration has proposed requiring tourists from approximately 40 visa-exempt countries to disclose five years of social media history when applying for entry to the United States through the ESTA program. This new requirement, filed by Customs and Border Protection and the Department of Homeland Security, would also mandate disclosure of phone numbers and email addresses from the past 5-10 years, citing national security concerns. The proposal comes as the US prepares to host major events like the 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics, despite tourism already declining under Trump's stricter border policies.

Who is affected

  • Tourists from approximately 40 countries including the UK, Ireland, France, Australia, and Japan who use the ESTA program
  • Potential applicants for US entry through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization
  • Foreign nationals already impacted by similar social media disclosure requirements for student and H1B skilled worker visas
  • American tourism industry businesses
  • Canadian travelers who have been boycotting US travel

What action is being taken

  • The proposal is inviting public comments for 60 days
  • Officers are being instructed to screen for individuals who advocate for, aid, or support designated foreign terrorists and those who perpetrate unlawful anti-Semitic harassment or violence
  • Officials are considering expanding an existing travel ban affecting 19 countries in Africa, the Middle East, and the Caribbean

Why it matters

  • This policy represents a significant escalation in data collection from international visitors and could create substantial obstacles for tourism at a critical time when the US is preparing to host major international events. The measure has already contributed to measurable tourism decline, with the US being the only economy among 184 analyzed expected to see decreased international visitor spending in 2025, and Canadian visits declining for ten consecutive months. Digital rights organizations warn it could violate civil liberties and create privacy concerns, while potentially deterring visitors who contribute billions to the US economy.

What's next

  • The proposal has a 60-day public comment period for collecting views from the public
  • Officials have indicated the existing travel ban affecting 19 countries could soon be expanded
  • The US will host the men's football World Cup in 2026 (alongside Canada and Mexico) and the Olympics in Los Angeles in 2028

Read full article from source: BBC

US could ask foreign tourists for five-year social media history before entry