The U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) has announced a proposal that would require foreign visitors, including those attending events like the 2026 World Cup, to provide details of their social media activity from the past five years when applying for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance the vetting and screening processes for incoming travelers, a directive stemming from Executive Order 14161 signed by former President Donald Trump in January 2025.

Currently, disclosing social media accounts on the ESTA application is optional. However, under the proposed changes, applicants would be required to submit this information, along with other personal details such as email addresses and phone numbers. The ESTA program allows citizens from designated countries, including the United Kingdom, France, Italy, and Japan, to travel to the U.S. for business or tourism for up to 90 days without a visa.

The proposal has sparked criticism from industry leaders, who argue that these new requirements could deter tourists from the UK and other countries, potentially impacting travel trends negatively. Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of the Advantage Travel Partnership, expressed concerns that such barriers might drive travelers to seek alternative destinations.

In addition to social media disclosures, the DHS is considering transitioning to a mobile-only application process for ESTA submissions to improve security and efficiency. This includes plans for geolocation services to verify that short-term visitors have departed the country, utilizing advanced technology to confirm the authenticity of departure selfies.

The public will have a 60-day period to comment on the proposed measures, which have raised significant questions regarding privacy, civil liberties, and the potential for discrimination against marginalized groups. Critics emphasize that the implications of these policies could disproportionately affect individuals from regions or backgrounds already subject to heightened scrutiny, highlighting the ongoing tension between national security interests and individual rights.