Changes to the ESTA process: will I have to redo everything?

Hi there, I have a valid ESTA for a trip planned on 2/23/2026.

However, I heard on the radio that a new law will be implemented in two months requiring travelers to provide information about their social media activity in addition to the ESTA.

My question is: will my current ESTA no longer allow me to enter the U.S.?

Hi there,

You won’t find anyone who can answer this question with certainty or even clarity. It’s more of a proposal, with a lot of PR, buzz-seeking, and very little realism. Realistically, you couldn’t provide your social media history for the past five years anyway, nor make your private online activity accessible, no matter what. A lot of hot air. Just let it blow over.

Michel

Hi,

If that's the case, they'll definitely let us know. Just wait a bit...

I think you’ll get an email letting you know if you need to update any info. Same way you get an email when your ESTA is about to expire.

No need to worry for now.

Hello,

I find you quite optimistic. It’s not about stirring controversy to face the facts. Of course, the hype may fizzle out, and announcements might not lead to anything—or result in a heavily watered-down version—but you can’t just recommend waiting and complying without question. As French citizens, I assume you are too, we have the right to simply provide our identities, email addresses, and social media IDs without prejudice. However, handing over family members' details without their consent—or worse, the content of exchanges with people on social media (what we commonly call "history")—is clearly a violation. GDPR, Article 9 of the Civil Code, and other regulations would likely define such a request as unlawful, leaving travelers in legal limbo in their own country. I completely understand why travelers are upset and very concerned.

Michel

Hello,

However, providing family members' contact details without their consent, or worse, the content of exchanges with people on social media—what we commonly call "history"—is clearly a violation. The GDPR, Article 9 of the French Civil Code, and other regulations would likely define such an approach as unlawful, leaving travelers in legal uncertainty in their own country. I fully understand why travelers are upset and very concerned.

Michel

I didn’t know the French Civil Code applied in the USA. What a discovery. In France, it’s one thing, but elsewhere, each country is sovereign. Well, in Europe less so since we have to adapt to EU rules.

And anyone who doesn’t want to provide anything can just stay home. It’s wiser.

You don’t seem to understand.

A traveler who wanted to get an ESTA in the future—assuming this plan has been confirmed in its most extensive version—would be committing offenses against the laws of their own country. Later legal action would obviously be possible, in France of course. I see a very uncomfortable dilemma for that traveler. Don’t you?

Michel

Personally, I don’t understand your position.

When it comes to infractions, they first need to be recorded and confirmed by a judge. For now, none of the French AEE officials are reacting to the blond guy’s decisions. So, wait and see.

And if the risk is too great, might as well stay home.

There’s nothing to fear from foreign affairs, as this possible violation doesn’t concern them. Don’t wait for them to make a decision, then.

There’s an administrative risk, a civil risk, or even a criminal one—though that’s less likely. If complaints do arise, they’ll come from your family or those whose messages, posts, or photos you may have compromised on social media. I think it’s important to mention that.

Michel

Thanks for these answers. Sovereignism in states is just as limited in the United States as it is in Europe, I think, even if the degree of federalism differs.

Unnecessary controversy. The law hasn’t been passed yet. Nobody knows what it will include. The person already has an ESTA. At this exact moment, there’s nothing else they can do but wait. What’s the point of debating what to do or not do? The details will be provided as soon as this new measure is approved.

And if I’m not mistaken, information about parents is already required (first name, last name, and date of birth... the address is missing. My parents, who are 81 and 84, really don’t care about giving their address). As for social media, I’ve been providing that optional information for a long time. As for travel history, it’s simply impossible. I suggest you check out ChatGPT—it has a great answer on this topic.