WTTC warns proposed ESTA social-media checks could dent US travel, costing billions and thousands of jobs
WTTC warns that a proposed rule requiring social-media history from ESTA travelers could deter international visitors to the US, potentially reducing arrivals by as much as 4.7 million in 2026 (a 23% drop) and costing about $15.7 billion in visitor spending and over 150,000 jobs. The rule would require ESTA applicants to provide social-media handles from the last five years, with public comments open until February 9.