US Proposes Social Media Checks for Visa-Free Entry; Tourism at Risk

• US proposes new rules for Visa Waiver Program travelers, requiring 5 years of social media history.
• The new rule affects approximately 40 visa-free countries, including Australia, Germany, Japan, and the UK.
• The proposal follows a recent shooting incident, aiming to strengthen security checks for foreign visitors.
• Social media checks are already being expanded for H-1B and student visa applicants.
• The US tourism sector faces a projected decline in foreign visitors and revenue, partly due to stricter policies.

Why It Matters: US will check social media for visa-free travelers, affecting privacy and tourism.