Are the proposed changes to US ESTA rules already in force?

No. The proposals finished public comment, but final scope and start dates are not confirmed. Travelers should monitor official advisories from CBP and carriers. Until timing is clear, complete authorization early and keep booking documentation handy in case airlines require extra verification during check‑in.

Will I need to share social media handles for ESTA?

The draft mentions social media identifiers, plus extra contact and family details. Final requirements are not set. If requested, provide accurate information and keep screenshots of submissions. Check your OTA or airline account to store details securely and avoid repeated data entry across bookings.

Could biometrics be expanded before travel?

Proposals reference possible biometric additions beyond current entry checks. There is no confirmed method or start date. If pre‑travel collection begins, expect longer timelines and new verification points. Build extra time into airport plans and follow airline emails or app alerts for any updates on required steps.

How should German businesses prepare for potential ESTA updates?

Update corporate travel policies now with clear steps, target completion dates, and support contacts. Provide GDPR‑aligned consent language for any optional data capture. Train staff to explain expectations in plain German. Track booking abandonment and customer support volumes to spot friction and adjust workflows quickly.

Law and Government

US ESTA Rules Tighten February 10: Booking Friction Risks for EU Travel

ByHuzaifa Zahoor February 10, 2026

US ESTA rules are set to tighten, with proposals adding social media handles, broader contact and family details, and possible biometric data requirements. The public comment window has closed, but enforcement timing remains unclear. For Germany, this raises booking friction on EU–US trips and could dent near‑term demand. We assess implications for airlines, online travel agencies, and hotels, and outline steps investors and operators can take now to reduce conversion loss while preparing customers for potential changes to pre‑departure checks.