US could ask foreign tourists for five-year social media history before entry
2 days ago
- #social media vetting
- #travel restrictions
- #US immigration
- US proposes requiring tourists from visa-waiver countries to provide a five-year social media history for entry.
- The new rule would apply to ESTA applicants, affecting citizens from about 40 countries, including the UK, France, and Japan.
- Additional proposed requirements include collecting phone numbers, email addresses, and family member information.
- The policy cites national security concerns, following Trump's executive order on terrorism and public safety threats.
- Critics argue the plan could harm digital rights and civil liberties, while also causing delays in ESTA approvals.
- The US tourism industry may suffer, with declines in international visitor spending and Canadian travelers boycotting due to Trump's policies.