Proposed DHS Requirement for ESTA Applicants Raises Concerns for Inbound Travel

The Department of Homeland Security and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) have proposed a new requirement for travelers applying for ESTA under the Visa Waiver Program: the mandatory submission of social media account information as part of the background screening process. 

The proposed requirement was published yesterday in the Federal Register to obtain comments from the public and affected agencies. The U.S. public has 60 days to comment on the proposal, according to the Federal Register notice.

In addition to social media histories, Customs and Border Protection would add other new data collection fields, including email addresses and telephone numbers used in the last five to 10 years, as well as the addresses and names of family members, the notice reads.

While the intention is to enhance security, this proposal introduces new barriers at a time when the United States is already struggling to regain competitiveness in the global tourism marketplace. Travelers are increasingly sensitive to privacy concerns, digital security, and the perception of how welcoming a destination feels. A mandatory social media disclosure requirement risks amplifying those concerns.

From an inbound travel perspective, this proposal would add friction to the travel process, increase confusion among first-time visitors, and create uncertainty among international partners. The lack of clarity around data use, retention, and traveler recourse may further erode confidence in the U.S. entry system.

For tour operators, this change could result in trip cancellations or shifts to alternative destinations with simpler, more predictable entry protocols. For the U.S., it would mean lost visitor spending at a time when inbound arrivals remain below pre-pandemic levels and price sensitivity is rising.

IITA is engaging with DHS - CBP and congressional offices to seek clarification, provide industry input, and ensure that any new requirement is implemented with transparency and an understanding of its economic impact. Our message is clear: the U.S. can support strong security measures without creating additional deterrents for legitimate travelers.

Comments are encouraged and must be submitted no later than February 9, 2026, to be assured of consideration. Submit comments to: CBP_PRA@cbp.dhs.gov.

We will continue to keep members informed as the proposal moves forward and welcome your insights on how this may affect your markets and customers.