US plans to mandate social media checks for visa-free visitors

The US is proposing that foreign visitors provide their social media history over the last five years to enter the country, including those from Australia, Germany, Japan and the UK who can now enter without a visa.

- Bloomberg

The plan is aimed at restricting entry into the US.

(ISTOCKPHOTO)

US Customs and Border Protection “is adding social media as a mandatory data element” as part of the screening process for travellers entering the US under the Visa Waiver Program, according to a Department of Homeland Security notice posted on Wednesday.

The proposal was given a 60-day notice with requests for comments.

It would apply to travellers from about 40 countries who can stay in the US for up to 90 days without a visa and are screened before travel under an electronic system known as ESTA.