The Trump administration is moving to tighten screening for travelers from 42 visa waiver countries by requiring five years of social media history, according to a proposal posted by U.S. Customs and Border Protection on the Federal Register.
The plan would make social media disclosure mandatory for visitors using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization.
Applicants would also need to submit phone numbers, email addresses, and detailed information about close family members from the prior five years.
US could ask foreign tourists for five-year social media history before entry https://t.co/Sk5kaIXibH
— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) December 10, 2025
The proposal marks a shift from 2016, when social media questions on the ESTA form were optional. Public comments on the rule are open through February 9.
The Department of Homeland Security has not responded to questions about how the change could affect future travel.
The policy aligns with President Donald Trump’s broader effort to overhaul legal immigration, expand vetting, and maintain stricter enforcement.
The administration has already increased scrutiny of student visa applicants’ online activity.
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TIPP Staff
TIPP Staff
