Media Release - IITA Warns New ESTA Data Collection Proposal Could Impose High Economic Costs

New ESTA Data Collection Proposal Could Impose High Economic Costs

WASHINGTON, D.C. — The International Inbound Travel Association (IITA) today expressed concern about the Department of Homeland Security’s proposal to require mandatory social media account information from all ESTA applicants under the Visa Waiver Program.

“Inbound travel is essential to the U.S. economy, and every additional layer of complexity in the entry process risks discouraging legitimate visitors, particularly those coming from countries already vetted through U.S. security standards,” said Lisa Simon, CEO/Executive Director of IITA. “Inbound operators and their partners fully support strong security protocols, but, the proposed requirement to collect social media and extensive personal and family background information introduces new privacy concerns and logistical barriers at a time when we can least afford additional deterrents to international visitors.”

IITA notes that the U.S. inbound sector continues to face headwinds — from rising costs and competitive global destinations to prolonged visa delays, increased entry requirements and a new entrance fee surcharge at national parks. Requiring social media disclosure and extensive personal data could further dissuade international travelers from choosing the U.S. as a destination. 

According to the U.S. Department of State, Travelers from countries approved through the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) are able to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. Travelers must have a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) approval prior to travel. 42 countries have been approved in the VWP.

The proposed change would mean that foreign travelers' social media history would be required as part of the pre-travel Electronic System for Travel Authorization application, along with “high value data” that includes high value data fields includes business and personal telephone and email addresses for the past 5-10 years; family members’ names, date of birth, residencies and telephone numbers used in the past 5 years; and Biometrics (face, fingerprint, DNA, and iris).

IITA will submit comments on the proposal and advocate for solutions that protect both national security and America’s global competitiveness in tourism, and urges IITA members and organizations involved in international inbound travel to do the same.

“We urge CBP to fully assess the economic impact of this requirement,” said Lisa Simon, CEO of IITA added. “Our industry stands ready to work with CBP and other federal agencies to balance security with smart policy that supports — rather than suppresses — international visitation.”

About IITA

The International Inbound Travel Association is the nonpartisan trade association representing the U.S. inbound travel industry. Its members include inbound/receptive tour operators, destination partners, attractions, hotels, transportation companies, and other businesses that welcome millions of international visitors to the United States each year.

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