Washington, D.C. — The U.S. Travel Association has expressed serious concern over a proposed policy that would require travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries to disclose their social media activity from the past five years as part of the pre-travel authorization process, warning that the measure could significantly deter international visitors and negatively impact the U.S. economy.

The proposal, which would integrate social media disclosure into the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) managed by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), has raised questions regarding both its effectiveness in enhancing national security and its potential to discourage travel to the United States.

In a statement, U.S. Travel said it was “deeply concerned” about the lack of clarity surrounding the policy’s implementation. “Without more detail from CBP, there are legitimate questions from travelers about what information they might need to provide, and from security experts as to whether this policy would meaningfully increase America’s security,” the association noted.

The organization also emphasized that, regardless of intent, the proposal could have a chilling effect on international travel. “One thing that isn’t in question: this policy could deter visitors from choosing the United States,” U.S. Travel said.

The Visa Waiver Program, which currently includes 42 countries, allows eligible travelers from regions such as most of Europe, South Korea, Australia, and Japan to enter the United States for short stays without obtaining a traditional visa. Under the proposed change, travelers’ social media histories would become part of the ESTA application process prior to departure.

U.S. Travel stressed the broader economic implications of the measure, noting that VWP travelers play a critical role in the U.S. economy. “These visitors come to do business with American companies, purchase U.S. products, and experience the beauty of our nation,” the association said. “If this policy is implemented incorrectly, millions of travelers could take their business—and the billions of dollars they spend—elsewhere, ultimately making America weaker.”

The association urged U.S. authorities to carefully evaluate the proposal’s impact on security, privacy, and international competitiveness before moving forward, warning that barriers to travel could undermine the country’s position as a leading global destination.