U.S. to Require Foreign Tourists to Share Five Years of Social Media Activity

Policy extends to visa‑exempt visitors from allied countries such as the United Kingdom and France

The United States is set to roll out a new security measure that will obligate all incoming tourists to disclose a five‑year history of their social‑media accounts. The rule applies not only to travelers needing visas, but also to citizens of nations that currently enjoy visa‑free entry, including Britain and France.

Under the proposed guidelines, visitors will be asked to provide usernames, profile links, and access to posts dating back to at least the past five years. The data will be reviewed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection officials to assess any potential security risks before granting entry.

“Our goal is to enhance national security while still welcoming legitimate travelers,” a spokesperson for the Department of Homeland Security said in a statement. “The social‑media review is a precautionary step, not a barrier to tourism.”

Critics argue that the requirement could infringe on privacy rights and deter tourists, especially those from countries that have historically enjoyed a smooth, visa‑free travel experience. Civil liberties groups have warned that the policy might set a precedent for broader digital surveillance of visitors.

Travel industry experts anticipate that the new rule could lead to longer processing times at airports and increased administrative burdens for both travelers and airlines. Some agencies are already preparing guidance to help tourists comply with the upcoming documentation demands.

While the policy is still in its draft phase, officials expect it to be finalized and implemented within the next year, reshaping the way the United States screens foreign visitors in an increasingly connected world.