By Gilly Bachelor, Travel Expert

At Gilly Bachelor Travel, we have always believed that providing accurate, up-to-date information is just as important as crafting exceptional holidays. That’s why we introduced our free travel advice service during the COVID pandemic — and it continues to run today.

This week, many of you have reached out with questions about ESTA applications for the United States, particularly in light of recent media coverage regarding proposals to declare more personal information, including social media accounts.

It is important to separate fact from speculation regarding these proposed changes. Social media and extended personal data questions already exist on the ESTA form, but they are currently optional. The proposals reported in the press would make these questions mandatory, but they have not yet been signed off and remain under public consultation.

If implemented, the proposed changes could include:

  • Providingsocial media history for the last five years
  • Submittingadditional contact information
  • Providingfamily details
  • Undergoingenhanced identity verification

These measures would represent a significant expansion of the data required from travellers from Visa Waiver Program countries, including the UK.

From a travel planning perspective, there is no need to panic. ESTA remains straightforward, and travellers can still complete applications without providing social media or extended historical information. However, it is wise to stay informed about ongoing discussions, particularly for those planning visits to the U.S. in 2026.

We have been assisting clients this week who are travelling to the USA in January, and we are pleased to report that their applications were processed and approved on the same day.

Nonetheless, we encourage travellers to apply early and to check the status of their ESTA before travel. We have heard of instances where applications have been delayed or even revoked without the traveller’s knowledge. Early application and verification can help avoid last-minute complications. You can read more about this here: ESTA Issues, Pending Applications & Revocations

Travel should be exciting, not stressful, and understanding the rules – current or proposed – is essential. We recommend that you sign-up for destination updates here: https://www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/usa/entry-requirements.

We will continue to monitor developments closely and update this article if the changes are formally implemented. If you still need more support, we run a free travel advice service and would be happy to answer any questions that you have: give us a call on 01902 288104, send us a message, or book a free travel advice appointment.