US Tourist Entry Rules: New Social Media & Data Requirements

Washington is proposing sweeping changes to entry requirements for visitors from dozens of countries, including those in Europe, potentially requiring them to hand over years of social media data as part of a revamped security screening process. The proposed rules, announced by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), are already raising concerns about privacy and potential barriers to tourism.

The changes primarily affect travelers who utilize the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA), a program allowing citizens of 40 countries to visit the U.S. For up to 90 days without a visa. According to a proposal published in the Federal Register, applicants will now be asked to provide social media profiles from the past five years. The exact nature of the information sought remains somewhat unclear, but officials have indicated they are interested in account names, according to reports.

The move comes as part of a broader effort to enhance security vetting, driven by an Executive Order issued in January 2025 – Executive Order 14161 – which directs agencies to expand screening and deny entry to individuals deemed security risks. This order builds upon a June 2025 proclamation that restricts or limits entry for nationals of certain countries on national security grounds.

Beyond social media data, the CBP is also seeking to collect more extensive personal information, including phone numbers used over the past five years, email addresses used over the past ten years and detailed information about family members, including dates and places of birth. The agency maintains that these measures are necessary to safeguard national security, but critics argue they represent an overreach of government authority and a potential violation of privacy rights.

The timing of the proposed changes coincides with the U.S. Preparing to host major international events, including the men’s football World Cup alongside Canada and Mexico, and the 2028 Olympics in Los Angeles. President Donald Trump, speaking on Wednesday, dismissed concerns that the new rules could deter tourism, stating We just want people to come over here, and safe. We want safety. We want security. We want to make sure we’re not letting the wrong people come enter our country..

The proposed overhaul of the ESTA system also includes a potential shift to a mobile-only application, requiring applicants to submit information directly through their smartphones. This move, coupled with the expanded data requirements, is expected to significantly increase processing times for ESTA applications. VisaVerge.com reports that the changes are already impacting travel planning for airlines, families, and business travelers.

While the CBP has stated it will not scrutinize the social media activity of every applicant, the sheer volume of data requested raises concerns about how the information will be stored, analyzed, and protected. The proposal does not detail which specific social media platforms will be targeted or how the data will be used to assess potential security risks.

The changes are not without precedent. The U.S. Has been increasing scrutiny of travelers’ electronic devices for years, often requesting access to phones and laptops at the border. However, the proposed requirement to proactively submit years of social media history represents a significant escalation of these practices.

The proposal is currently open for public comment, with a deadline of February 10, 2026. The CBP will then review the feedback and may make adjustments before finalizing the new rules. It remains unclear when the changes will take effect, but the potential impact on international travel is already being felt.

The move to collect social media data is likely to face legal challenges, with privacy advocates arguing that it violates the First Amendment rights of travelers. The extent to which the U.S. Government can compel individuals to disclose their social media information as a condition of entry remains a contentious legal issue.

The implications of these changes extend beyond the U.S. Borders. Other countries may follow suit, implementing similar screening measures in response to perceived security threats. This could lead to a global trend towards increased surveillance of travelers and a greater emphasis on data collection as a means of border control.

For travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries, the new rules mean a more cumbersome and intrusive application process. They will need to gather and submit a significant amount of personal information, potentially facing delays and denials if they are unable to comply. The changes underscore the growing tension between national security concerns and the freedom of international travel.