Social media as a condition of entry: how the US proposal will change visa-free travel for citizens of 40 countries
10 December 17:26
The United States is planning to introduce a new requirement for foreign nationals entering the country without a visa: to provide a history of their social media accounts for the last five years. The proposal was made public by the Department of Homeland Security, and it has already sparked debate about the impact on privacy and international travel. Bloomberg reports , according to "Komersant Ukrainian".
Who will have to disclose social media data
The initiative applies to citizens of nearly 40 countries – including Australia, Germany, Japan, and the United Kingdom – who use the Visa Waiver Program and can stay in the United States for up to 90 days without a visa. Before traveling, such travelers are screened online through the ESTA system.
Now, the Customs and Border Protection wants to make social media a mandatory element of the data collected during this check. The Ministry expects public comments within 60 days, after which a final decision may be made.
Expanding the “secure borders” approach
This is not the first time that the Donald Trump administration has tightened control over foreign visitors. Earlier, the authorities
- revised procedures for screening migrants from high-risk countries;
- temporarily suspended consideration of applications from Afghan citizens;
- sought wider access to data on previous travel, contacts, and financial ties.
The current initiative fits into this trend and actually expands the state’s ability to monitor the digital activity of travelers.
Privacy issues and possible consequences
The introduction of such a requirement could be one of the most significant expansions of personal information verification for visa-free visitors to the United States. Critics warn that:
- thecollection of social media data may affect freedom of expression if people fear that their online statements will be grounds for denial of entry;
- it may make traveling more difficult for visitors who have multiple accounts or use pseudonyms;
- the new requirements may increase tensions with allied countries whose citizens are accustomed to simplified travel rules.
At the same time, the US government emphasizes that additional information will help identify potential risks and strengthen national security.
