US ESTA Changes: Social Media, Contact and Biometric Data Now Required
The United States is introducing significant new requirements for travellers using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
Starting 10 February 2026, applicants from the UK, France, Germany, Australia, New Zealand, Japan and other 42 VWP countries will need to provide substantially more personal information when applying for ESTA.
Expanded Data Collection in ESTA Applications
Under the updated rules, ESTA applicants must disclose:
- Five years of social media history and account handles used during that period.
- Telephone numbers used over the past five years.
- Email addresses used over the past 10 years.
- Detailed family information, including names, birth dates, and contact information.
- Biometric data may be added, such as facial scans, fingerprints and possibly iris information in the future.
These requirements represent the most extensive expansion of ESTA data collection since the programme began, and social media disclosure, once optional will become mandatory.
Who Will Be Affected
- The new ESTA data fields will apply to all citizens of countries eligible for visa‑free travel under the VWP. This includes travellers from:
- European Union countries (UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, etc.)
- Australia and New Zealand
- Japan, South Korea, Israel and other participating nations.
Travellers who routinely used ESTA to visit the US for tourism or business will now need to plan further ahead and compile detailed personal histories.
Why the US Is Tightening Rules
US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Department of Homeland Security (DHS) say the expanded screening will help strengthen border security and better identify potential risks before travellers depart for the United States. These changes stem from broader security directives and a Federal Register notice published in late 2025.
Officials also want to modernise the ESTA process, including potential shifts to new mobile‑friendly application platforms and expanded biometric verification.
Impact on Travellers and Travel Planning
The new requirements could lengthen ESTA processing times and increase the administrative work required before travel. Travel advisors and agencies will likely need to help clients gather and verify social media, contact and family information ahead of application to avoid delays.
Privacy concerns have been raised in Europe, especially where local data protection laws such as the GDPR govern personal information handling. However, compliance with US entry requirements remains mandatory for visa‑waiver travel.
Travel planners and business travellers should start preparing for these changes now, as ESTA applications filed before the new rules take effect may still use the older, simpler process.
Key Takeaways for ESTA Applicants
- New rules started 10 February 2026 for all Visa Waiver Program travellers.
- Applicants must provide extended social media, contact and family data.
- Biometric data collection may be introduced.
- Travel advisors should prepare clients well before departure to meet extended requirements.
Staying informed and proactive will help avoid travel disruptions under the updated US ESTA requirements.