U.S. May Require Tourists to Share 5 Years of Social Media History to Enter the Country

Dec 22

If you or someone you know plans to travel to the United States soon, there’s a new immigration policy proposal you should be aware of. The U.S. government is considering a rule that would require foreign visitors, including those from countries that normally do not need a visa, to provide five years of social media history as part of the entry process.

This proposed change has big implications for international travel, tourism, and how the U.S. screens visitors. At AYRA Immigration Law ,in Los Angeles, we want to break down what this means, who it applies to, and what you should consider if you’re planning a trip.

What’s Being Proposed?

The U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agency (CBP) has published a notice suggesting major changes to the way people enter the United States under the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) program.

Under the current system, citizens of 42 visa‑exempt countries, including the United Kingdom, Australia, Japan, Germany, Israel, and others, can travel to the U.S. for up to 90 days for tourism or business without needing a visa. Instead, they apply online through ESTA.

The proposed changes would require these travelers to provide additional personal information before entering the U.S., including:

Five years of social media history
Email addresses used over the past 10 years
Phone numbers used over the past five years
Names, birthdates, and residence information of immediate family members

This information would become mandatory for entry, not optional.

Why Is the Government Considering This?

Officials say the goal is to improve security and prevent individuals who may pose a threat to national safety or public order from entering the United States. These expanded vetting measures are meant to help identify potential risks before someone arrives at a U.S. airport or border crossing.

The push for deeper digital scrutiny comes as part of a broader trend of increased social media checks across immigration processes. Earlier in 2025, similar social media requirements were added for visa applicants and individuals already applying to stay in the United States for longer periods.

How Could This Affect Travelers?

If this proposal becomes a rule:

Tourists from visa‑free countries would no longer have the simple, online ESTA process they are used to.
Visitors may have to submit detailed online histories long before departure.
Providing social media history could raise privacy concerns, and some travelers may choose different destinations instead.

Travel industry groups are already warning that this could have a chilling effect on tourism and may discourage people from visiting the U.S. for business or pleasure.

What’s the Timeline?

The notice is currently in a public comment period, which means individuals and organizations can submit feedback before a final rule is made. If the rule moves forward, it could take effect ahead of major global events and peak travel seasons in 2026.

It’s important to understand that this is still a proposal, not finalized policy. Changes may be made before adoption, and it will take time before any final requirements are enforced.

What Should Travelers Do Now?

Here are some steps international visitors can take:

Watch for updates: This policy is evolving, and requirements may shift before final adoption.
Prepare travel documentation early: If you plan to apply for travel authorization, give yourself extra time in case new requirements roll out.
Review your online profiles: Although specifics are not yet clear, being mindful of your social media presence may help if such requirements are adopted.
Seek legal guidance: If you have questions about how this might affect your travel plans or future immigration options, talk to an experienced immigration attorney.

How AYRA Immigration Law Can Help

At AYRA Immigration Law we help clients understand complex immigration policy changes and plan accordingly. If you are concerned about how evolving rules could affect your ability to visit friends or family in the U.S., attend a major event like the 2026 FIFA World Cup, or travel for business, we can help you stay informed and prepared.

The proposed requirement for foreign tourists to disclose five years of social media history marks a significant shift in how the United States evaluates those seeking entry. While this policy is not yet final, its potential impact on travelers and tourism is real.

Stay tuned and stay prepared. If you have questions about how this might affect your travel plans or long‑term immigration strategy, AYRA Immigration Law is here to help.

Source: CBS News