The Trump administration has proposed a new policy requiring foreign tourists entering the United States without a visa to disclose their social media histories from the past five years. The measure aims to tighten security and provide U.S. authorities with more detailed information on incoming visitors.

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Who Will Be Affected

The proposal, published in the Federal Register on Tuesday, would affect travelers from 42 visa-exempt countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Australia, and Japan.

Currently, these visitors are allowed to enter the U.S. under the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) program, which only requires basic personal information. Under the new rules, ESTA applications would include mandatory collection of social media data.

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What Information Will Be Collected

Applicants would be required to submit:

• Social media histories from the past five years
• Phone numbers used in the past five years
• Email addresses from the past decade
• Biometric information
• Personal details of family members

The notice specifies that these high-value data fields are intended to help U.S. authorities identify potential security threats before travelers arrive.

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Public Consultation and Comments

The administration has opened a 60-day public comment period, allowing individuals, organizations, and stakeholders to provide feedback on the proposed policy.

Officials say the move is part of a broader effort to tighten entry regulations and strengthen security amid ongoing concerns over international travel.

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Context: Migration and Tourism

The new social media disclosure requirement comes amid increased U.S. border and immigration restrictions under President Trump. It also coincides with preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the United States will co-host with Mexico and Canada, a major event expected to attract large numbers of international visitors.

Critics argue that the policy could discourage tourism and raise privacy concerns among travelers, while supporters claim it provides an important tool for national security and risk assessment.