The United States government is poised to significantly tighten its entry rules for foreign travelers, including citizens from the UK, under a proposed overhaul that would mandate the disclosure of five years’ worth of social media history. As outlined in a notice published in the US Federal Register, prospective visitors would need to furnish a comprehensive list of their social media handles, email addresses, phone numbers, and detailed information about close family members before gaining entry.
This marks a sharp departure from the current process, where travelers from Visa Waiver Programme countries, including the UK, can obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for a small fee, allowing stays of up to 90 days.
The proposed changes would escalate the level of personal data required, making online activity a routine part of security screenings. Additionally, the government plans to expand biometric data collection during online applications to include facial recognition, fingerprints, iris scans, and possibly DNA measures previously reserved for in-person
checks at US ports of entry. The move signals a heightened focus on digital scrutiny in the vetting process.
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