US Border Agents Could Seize Your DNA: Are You Prepared for This Shocking Demand?

The landscape of travel to the United States may soon change significantly as US authorities propose new requirements for foreign visitors. Under plans issued by the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP), travelers will soon be required to provide access to five years of their social media history on platforms such as Instagram, Facebook, and X (formerly Twitter) before being granted an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (Esta) permit. This development particularly impacts anyone planning trips to the US, whether for the upcoming 2026 World Cup, family vacations in Florida, or business trips to major cities like New York and Chicago.

This proposal stems from an Executive Order initiated by former President Donald Trump, emphasizing the need for rigorous vetting and screening of foreign visitors. Currently, the Esta is a mandatory requirement for most British travelers entering the US, costing $40 (£30) and allowing stays of up to 90 days within two years. The application process typically involves filling out an online form, which can be completed in a matter of hours. However, rejections can occur if an applicant's details closely match someone on a watchlist, leading to the need for a more costly and time-consuming US visa.

While social media activity has not been a primary focus of border officials in the past, travelers have faced scrutiny during inspections. An optional question regarding social media accounts was added to the Esta application nine years ago, yet most applicants do not disclose this information. Upon arrival in the US, border officials have the authority to examine mobile devices and inquire about social media usage. Some have reported being denied entry based on perceived political views.

Mandatory Social Media Disclosure

The latest proposed changes will make social media information a mandatory part of the Esta application process. Applicants will be required to disclose their social media history from the last five years. This information will be used to corroborate the applicant’s details, determine identity and occupation, and identify any potential deception or fraud. While individuals who already possess a valid Esta are currently exempt from providing this information, they may still face questioning about their social media activity upon arrival.

CBP officials have stated that this shift toward mandatory social media data aims to enhance travel security and facilitate legitimate travel. A spokesperson for CBP noted, “This is not a final rule; it is simply the first step in starting a discussion to have new policy options to keep the American people safe.” However, this proposal is still in its preliminary stages, and officials are currently soliciting feedback from organizations and the public. As such, a new policy could be implemented within months, presenting a limited window for travelers to apply for an Esta without having to disclose their social media details.

Reactions in the UK have been overwhelmingly negative. A poll conducted by travel industry expert Julia Lo Bue-Said, chief executive of the Advantage Travel Partnership, found that 40 percent of respondents opposed the requirement and indicated they would avoid traveling to the US. Lo Bue-Said, whose organization has witnessed a 20 percent increase in US bookings driven by major events like the football World Cup, warned that such barriers could quickly reverse this trend.

Interestingly, the proposed requirements highlight a growing global trend toward increased scrutiny of travelers. While mandatory social media disclosure is not yet standard for vacationers heading to other countries, North Korea is known for thoroughly vetting social media activity before granting visas. In contrast, countries like China block access to platforms such as Facebook and X, reflecting different attitudes towards online activity.

In addition to the social media requirement, CBP intends to roll out further measures to enhance traveler vetting. These will include requests for information regarding family members, recent telephone numbers, and email addresses, along with the potential for DNA samples. The department aims to streamline applications through an official app to safeguard against scams that plague existing online submission platforms.

As these changes loom, travelers planning to visit the US should be vigilant about evolving requirements. While the new measures could enhance national security, they also risk deterring a significant number of potential visitors, particularly younger travelers who are frequently active on social media. As the discussion about these proposals continues, the travel industry and potential visitors are anxiously awaiting a clearer picture of what the future holds for travel to the United States.