A leading U.S. travel industry group has warned that proposed new screening rules requiring foreign visitors to disclose their social media activity could deter millions of travelers and negatively affect the American tourism economy.
The proposal, announced last week in a notice by U.S. authorities, would require visitors from countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program to provide social media handles used over the past five years as part of their Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) applications. The changes are expected to take effect on February 8 and are currently open for public comment.
The U.S. Travel Association cautioned that the measure could have a “chilling effect” on international travel to the United States, warning that travelers may choose alternative destinations, taking with them billions of dollars in tourism spending. The association said the stakes are high for an industry still seeking a full recovery.
Under the proposal, travelers would also be required to disclose all email addresses used over the past 10 years, as well as personal details of close family members, including parents, siblings, spouses and children.
While applicants for immigrant and non-immigrant visas have been subject to social media disclosure requirements since 2019, the new rules would extend similar obligations to millions of short-term visitors who currently travel visa-free.
The measures form part of broader vetting policies introduced under the Trump administration, following an executive order calling for maximum screening of individuals entering the United States. U.S. Customs and Border Protection said the additional data collection is intended to strengthen security checks.
The developments come as the United States prepares to co-host the 2026 FIFA World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico, an event expected to attract large numbers of international visitors. Travel and tourism businesses are counting on the tournament to boost arrivals after a period of weaker inbound tourism.
Separately, the U.S. State Department recently introduced new requirements for certain work visa applicants, mandating that social media profiles be set to public to allow for review.
The administration has also launched new residency-by-investment initiatives, including a high-value “gold card” program, which has drawn criticism from some legal and policy experts.
