The Trump administration has unveiled a proposal that could require foreign visitors to disclose their social media history as part of the Visa Waiver Program application process. Announced by U.S. Customs and Border Protection, the initiative seeks to enhance security measures by mandating that tourists provide details of their social media activity from the past five years before entering the United States.
The Visa Waiver Program currently permits citizens from various countries, including many in Europe, Australia, Israel, and Qatar, to visit the U.S. for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa. At present, applicants only need to pay a fee and provide basic contact information. Under the new proposal, however, visitors would also need to submit "high value data fields," which include previously used phone numbers and email addresses, as well as the names and contact information of close family members.
This proposed measure aligns with President Trump's executive order aimed at bolstering national security and addressing potential threats from foreign nationals. The public will have a chance to comment on the proposal over the next 60 days. This initiative arrives as the U.S. gears up for the 2026 World Cup, anticipated to attract millions of international visitors.
In addition to the social media disclosure requirements, the State Department has previously emphasized enhanced vetting protocols, particularly for student and H-1B visa applicants. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has advocated for scrutinizing social media accounts, especially for individuals linked to potential security threats. The administration's position asserts that obtaining a visa is a privilege rather than a right, reinforcing the need for thorough background checks on those seeking entry into the U.S.