Archive · 12 Dec 2025
US Tourist Visa Rules: DNA and Social Media Checks
The US government is making it harder to get a tourist visa.
Starting in 2025, people who want to visit the US will have to give more personal information.
This includes things like their social media history, phone numbers, and even their DNA.
The US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) is adding these new rules to make sure travelers are safe.
The ESTA application, which is used by many people to visit the US, will now ask for more details like family information and biometric data.
This is all part of a plan to protect the US from threats.
New US tourist visa rules include biometric data collection such as face, fingerprint, DNA, and iris.
ESTA applications will now require social media history, phone numbers, email addresses, and family member details.
The new rules are set to go into effect in January 2025 as per Executive Order 14161.
ESTA is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
The changes aim to enhance national security and public safety.
- Who
- US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and travelers seeking tourist visas
- What
- New rules for ESTA applications including biometric data and social media vetting
- When
- Effective January 2025
- Where
- United States
- Why
- To enhance national security and public safety
- New Rules Effective
- January 2025
- Executive Order
- 14161
- Biometric Data
- Face, fingerprint, DNA, iris
- Social Media Vetting
- Mandatory
- ESTA Application
- Electronic System for Travel Authorization
- Visa Waiver Program
- VWP
