New U. S. Travel Rules Raise Eyebrows
Increased Security Checks for Visitors
The U.S. is implementing stricter travel rules, affecting visitors from 42 countries, primarily in Europe. Starting soon, travelers will be required to share their social media handles from the past five years. This change is part of a broader initiative to enhance security measures for incoming visitors.
Extensive Personal Data Collection
The new regulations also mandate the submission of extensive personal information. Visitors must provide:
- All email addresses used in the last decade
- Detailed information about family members, including:
- Full names
- Birth dates
- Places of birth
This represents a significant increase in the amount of data required from visitors.
Industry Concerns and Criticism
The U.S. Travel Association has expressed dissatisfaction with these changes, fearing that the new rules could complicate travel to the U.S. and make it less attractive. The association is actively engaging with the government to address these concerns.
Some experts have drawn comparisons to other countries' travel rules. Notably, one expert highlighted that even China does not require as much information as the U.S. is now mandating. This has sparked criticism that the rules might be excessively strict.
Potential Impact on Tourism
The U.S. is scheduled to host the World Cup in 2026, which is anticipated to attract a large number of tourists. However, these new rules could deter potential visitors, posing a challenge for businesses that depend on tourism.
Presidential Stance
President Trump has defended the new rules, asserting that they are essential for the country's safety. When asked if the rules might reduce tourism, President Trump did not directly address the concern.
New Investment Programs
Concurrently, the U.S. is introducing a new program that allows individuals to pay for permanent residency. For a $1 million investment, applicants can obtain a "gold card" that expedites their residency application. A "platinum card" option, requiring a $5 million investment, is also in development.
