U.S. Plans New Social-Media Screening for Visa-Waiver Travelers

The United States is preparing a major expansion of traveler vetting under a new Homeland Security proposal. Visitors from visa-waiver nations — including the UK, Japan, Australia, Germany, France, Italy, and others — would be required to submit five years of social-media history when applying through ESTA. Officials say the added screening would strengthen national security, while critics warn it raises privacy concerns and could deter tourism. The proposal is not yet in effect and is currently open for a 60-day public comment period.