The Traveller's Magazine
If you thought the paperwork to enter the US was already extensive enough, think again: soon, you could also be asked to provide your social media account names!
Currently, visitors to the US need to fill out a form on arrival which asks for a number of details – however, social media accounts were not one of them. That could be about to change after US Customs and Border Protection entered a new proposal into the federal register requesting that a new section on the form be created, allowing applicants to enter their social media account names. The proposal also focuses on the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) form, which those eligible for a visa waiver (including UK citizens) are required to fill out.
It won’t be compulsory to fill out the section, meaning you can keep your Twitter, Instagram and Facebook details to yourself if you wish.
The proposals raise the question, however: where is the fragile boundary between what information customs can demand for security reasons, and your right to privacy?
Among a number of other great destinations, Brits can enjoy visa free travel to the U.S. for periods of up to 90 days for business, pleasure or transit. Ensure you have the correct passport and remember – you’ll still need to fill out the form to obtain a valid Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA).
What do you think about the new proposals?
