Stricter US entry rules for tourists unlikely before mid-2026

Washington - Stricter entry requirements for tourists from more than 40 countries traveling to the United States are unlikely to take effect before mid-2026, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has told dpa.
Details of the proposed changes have not yet been finalized. A public comment period on the draft rules closed last Monday, and submissions must now be reviewed, a process that typically takes up to two months, the CBP said.
Under the proposal, travellers applying through the Electronic Systemfor Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be required to provide significantly more personal information.
This could include disclosing details of their social media presence over the past five years, as well as additional contact and familydata, though the proposal does not specify the exact scope.
According to the CBP, the measures are aimed at protecting againstterrorist and other threats.
The changes would affect citizens of countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program, which allows visa-free travel to the UnitedStates for up to 90 days.
CNN reported in January, citing a hotel and hospitality association in the US state of Florida, that officials had indicated applicants would be asked to provide social media account names, but would not be required to grant access to accounts or individual posts.
The CBP would also not review the social media activity of all applicants, the report said.