US could ask foreign tourists for five-year social media history before entry

The United States may soon require tourists from dozens of countries, including the UK, to provide a five-year history of their social media as part of the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) process. This new proposal, announced by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), aims to strengthen national security and prevent dangerous individuals from entering the country.

In addition to social media accounts, the proposal suggests collecting applicants’ phone numbers, email addresses, and information about family members used over the last five to ten years. Currently, ESTA only requires basic information and a one-time payment of $40 for citizens of about 40 countries.

The Trump administration said the new social media screening would apply not only to tourists but also to student visas and H-1B skilled worker visas. Applicants would need to make their social media profiles public so authorities could review their online activity and identify potential security threats.

Experts and digital rights organizations have raised concerns. Critics argue that the proposal could violate privacy and civil liberties, while immigration law specialists warn it may lead to longer processing times for ESTA approvals. Some suggest it could reduce the number of tourists visiting the US.

The US expects a major influx of visitors next year for the Men’s Football World Cup and the 2028 Olympics, but past policies under Trump, including travel bans and tariffs, have already affected tourism. Canadian visitors, for example, have been declining due to boycotts and new restrictions. The public has 60 days to comment on the new social media requirement before any final rule is made.

Source : https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/c1dz0g2ykpeo

Comprehension

What new information might tourists have to provide under the proposed ESTA rules?
Which types of visa applicants could also be affected by social media checks?
Why is the US government proposing these new rules?
What concerns have experts and digital rights groups raised about the proposal?
How could the new rules affect international tourism to the United States?

Discussion

Do you think governments should be allowed to review social media accounts of tourists? Why or why not?
How might requiring social media histories affect travelers’ privacy?
What are the potential benefits and drawbacks of stricter border controls?
Could these rules discourage people from visiting the US? How?
How should countries balance national security with civil liberties for visitors?

Vocabulary

Authorization – official permission to do something, such as travel to a country.
Proposal – a plan or suggestion for consideration.
Screening – checking people or information to ensure safety or eligibility.
Civil liberties – personal freedoms protected by law.
Influx – a large arrival or flow of people or things.