In recent days, reports have circulated suggesting that the United States has made it mandatory for travellers to declare their social media accounts as part of the ESTA application process.

In reality, no new measures have come into force at this stage. Hellotickets sets the record straight.

A proposal under review, but no official changes

As part of a public consultation, several potential reforms have been discussed, including:

A detailed personal history covering several years (phone numbers, email addresses)

Additional information about family members

Enhanced biometric data collection

Mandatory disclosure of social media accounts from the past five years

At this stage, these elements remain proposals under consultation. No implementing decree has been issued.

For any reform to take effect, an official implementing regulation must be published. As of today, no official text confirms the introduction of these new requirements.

Industry sources confirm that, at this stage, nothing has changed in the ESTA procedure: social media disclosure remains optional, and no additional family information is required, either on the website or via the mobile application.

Increased questions, but no procedural changes

At Hellotickets, the news has prompted a noticeable rise in customer enquiries.

“We’ve seen an increase in questions from travellers over the past few days,” says Jorge Diaz Largo, CEO of Hellotickets.
“It’s important to clarify that the current ESTA process has not been modified. Until an official regulation is published, the rules remain the same. Our role is to provide clarity and prevent unnecessary confusion.”

In an already sensitive international context, unverified information can quickly cause concern. However, when it comes to entry requirements, only an official government publication can formally change the rules.

What travellers should know

As of today:

Declaring social media accounts remains optional

The ESTA form has not been amended

No new requirements are being enforced

Hellotickets advises travellers to consult only the official U.S. government website for updates and to submit their ESTA application well in advance of departure.

The experiences at the heart of US travel

While regulatory discussions may generate headlines, travel to the United States continues to revolve around major cultural and live experiences.

Among the most popular bookings via Hellotickets:

NBA games, particularly in New York, Los Angeles and Miami

Broadway shows

Multi-attraction passes in New York

Excursions to major national parks

Themed guided tours in leading US cities

“Travellers choosing the United States often do so for a very specific experience — a sporting event, a show, an iconic landmark,” concludes Jorge Diaz Largo. “Our role is to support them with reliable information, both regarding entry formalities and the organisation of their stay.”

All experiences available at: www.hellotickets.com/en-en