Trump Administration Proposes Social Media and Health Screening for US Tourists
The Trump administration has unveiled a controversial new immigration measure that could affect tourists entering the United States. Under the proposal, travelers eligible for the 90-day visa-free ESTA program, including UK citizens, may be required to provide detailed social media histories from the past five years.
The mandatory submission would extend beyond online activity, encompassing phone numbers, email addresses, birthdays, and personal information of family members. Additionally, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) proposes collecting biometric data, including selfies, fingerprints, DNA, and iris scans.
Public feedback is open for 60 days on the plan, which is seen as part of a broader immigration crackdown.
Last month, Trump further stirred controversy by instructing visa officers to consider applicants’ health, potentially denying visas to those with conditions like obesity, diabetes, or cardiovascular disease. A State Department memo cited concerns over the cost of long-term medical care, stating, “Certain medical conditions can require hundreds of thousands of dollars’ worth of care,” emphasizing the financial burden on public resources.
The proposals mark a dramatic shift in US border policy, combining digital scrutiny with health-based entry restrictions.
