The United States government is proposing new requirements for millions of foreign visitors. These changes would ask travelers to provide their social media handles from the past five years. Industry groups warn this could negatively impact tourism and the US economy.
Key Takeaways
- New rules may require social media data from visa waiver program travelers.
- The U.S. Travel Association fears a 'chilling effect' on tourism.
- The proposal extends existing vetting measures from 2019.
- Additional data like email addresses and family details would also be requested.
Proposed Changes to Visa Waiver Program
A recent U.S. government notice outlined the upcoming changes. Starting February 8, travelers from countries participating in the visa waiver program would need to submit their social media information. This includes any handles used over the last five years.
The visa waiver program allows citizens from 42 countries, primarily in Europe, to visit the U.S. for up to 90 days without a traditional visa. These travelers currently complete an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) form. The new policy would add social media handle requests to this form.
Quick Fact
Applicants for immigrant and non-immigrant visas have already been required to share social media data since 2019.
Industry Concerns Over Economic Impact
The U.S. travel and tourism industry has voiced strong opposition to the proposal. The U.S. Travel Association stated that the policy could have a "chilling effect" on visits to the United States.
"If we get this policy wrong, millions of travelers could take their business and the billions of dollars they spend elsewhere, only making America weaker," the U.S. Travel Association said in a statement. "One thing that isn’t in question: this policy could have a chilling effect on travel to the United States."
The industry is concerned that these new requirements could deter international visitors. A decline in tourism would lead to significant economic losses for the country.
Broader Vetting Measures
These proposed social media requirements are part of a larger effort to tighten vetting processes for foreign nationals entering the U.S. The initiative stems from an executive order issued in January, which called for visitors to be "vetted and screened to the maximum degree."
Beyond social media, the notice also indicates that the U.S. would require travelers to provide all email addresses used over the last 10 years. Additionally, applicants would need to share names, birth dates, residences, and birthplaces of their parents, siblings, children, and spouses.
Background Information
The U.S. State Department previously announced similar requirements for H-1B visa applicants. Effective December 15, H-1B applicants and their dependents must set all social media profiles to "public" for departmental review.
Future Implications for Tourism
The U.S., along with Canada and Mexico, is preparing to host the FIFA World Cup in 2026. This global event is expected to attract a large number of tourists from around the world. U.S. travel businesses are hoping the World Cup will help boost tourism, which has seen a downturn in recent years.
The proposed policy is open for public comment for 60 days. The travel industry hopes its concerns will be heard and considered before the changes take full effect.
Other Immigration Policy Changes
In related news, the administration recently began accepting applications for a "gold card." This program allows individuals who pay $1 million to obtain U.S. permanent residency quickly. Critics argue that such programs may exceed the scope of existing U.S. law. A "platinum card" for those paying $5 million is also reportedly in development.
Understanding the Visa Waiver Program
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows eligible citizens or nationals of designated countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. Travelers must apply for authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) and meet certain requirements.
- Purpose of Visit: Tourism, business, or transit.
- Duration of Stay: Maximum 90 days.
- Eligible Countries: Currently 42 countries, mostly in Europe, but also including Australia, Japan, South Korea, and others.
- ESTA Requirement: Mandatory online application for authorization before travel.
The program aims to streamline travel for low-risk visitors while maintaining U.S. security. Any changes to ESTA requirements, such as the addition of social media data, are closely watched by both travelers and the travel industry.
