Belgian citizens’ social media accounts may be checked when traveling to the US

Belgian travelers heading to the United States may soon face stricter security checks under a new proposal from US Customs and Border Protection. According to the agency’s recommendation, visitors from 42 countries participating in the US Visa Waiver Program—including Belgium—could be required to provide details of their social media accounts from the past five years and all email addresses used in the last decade. In addition to these digital footprints, the proposed rules would have travelers submit comprehensive personal data about their immediate family members, such as names, birth dates, places of birth, and addresses.

The plan marks a significant tightening of existing travel procedures, which currently only ask for limited information like a single email address, home address, phone number, and an emergency contact, along with a fee for approval that lasts for two years. Tourism industry representatives have warned the move could deter visitors, especially with major events like the World Cup approaching, citing a recent drop in Belgian tourist numbers to the US amid stricter policies.

It remains unclear when the new security measures may take effect, as US authorities have launched a 60-day public comment period before any decision is made. If the proposal is approved, the changes will be rolled out in phases to all travelers from countries in the visa waiver program, raising concerns about privacy and the overall impact on tourism to the United States.