US to Require Tourists to Submit Five-Year Social Media History

The Trump administration is proposing a new rule that would require travellers from visa-waiver countries to disclose their social media history from the past five years when applying for entry to the United States.

The plan, outlined by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), would expand the current Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) process, which allows citizens of countries like the UK, Australia, Japan, and most European nations to visit the US without a visa. Currently, social media information is optional on the ESTA form, but under the new rule, it would become mandatory, along with additional personal details such as phone numbers, email addresses, and family information.

The proposal is open to public comment until 9 February, but its potential effects are already sparking debate. Critics argue that it could compromise privacy and create barriers for travellers, while supporters see it as an important security measure. The Department of Homeland Security, which oversees CBP, has yet to provide details on how the information will be used or what penalties may apply for those who fail to meet the new requirements.

This measure is part of a wider effort by the administration to strengthen border controls, which includes a travel ban affecting over 30 countries and increased scrutiny of foreign nationals’ online activity. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem has said that such measures are necessary to ensure national security, particularly when dealing with countries that lack stable governments or reliable systems for identifying citizens.

In addition to social media disclosures, the revised ESTA application would require applicants to provide phone numbers, email addresses, and details of close family members from the past five years. A recent photograph or "selfie" would also be needed for identity verification.