U.S. Travel Association: Collecting visitors’ social media history will reduce travel to the U.S.

The U.S. Travel Association expresses strong concern, in a statement, about the impact on travel flows to the United States stemming from the potential requirement to collect visitors’ social media history. It is recalled that this is a requirement sought by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) for travelers entering the country through the Visa Waiver Program.

“We are deeply concerned by CBP’s recent announcement that it may request social media history from Visa Waiver Program travelers visiting the United States. And without further details from CBP, there are reasonable questions from travelers about what information they may be asked to provide, as well as from security experts about whether this policy would meaningfully enhance the nation’s security. One thing, however, is not in doubt: this policy could have a deterrent effect on travel to the United States.”

As the Association notes, travelers entering the U.S. through the Visa Waiver Program visit the country to conduct business with American companies, purchase American products, and experience the country’s natural beauty and destinations.

“If implemented incorrectly, this policy could cause millions of travelers to take their business—and the billions of dollars they spend—elsewhere, ultimately weakening the United States,” the U.S. Travel Association states.

At the same time, the Association acknowledges that the U.S. government has taken a number of positive steps during the first 11 months of its term, such as modernizing Transportation Security Administration (TSA) policies, strengthening CBP with additional staff, reducing visa wait times, and coordinating the entire federal government in preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

“We look forward to working with the administration to continue improving travel facilitation and to restore the United States’ position as the world’s most popular travel destination,” the statement concludes.

About the U.S. Travel Association

The U.S. Travel Association is the national, non-profit organization representing the U.S. travel industry, a sector valued at USD 1.3 trillion that constitutes a key pillar of the American economy. The organization develops programs and analyses and advocates institutionally for policies that strengthen travel to and within the United States.