Fact Sheet: ESTA Processing
The Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and the Customs and Border Protection (CBP) agency concluded a public comment period on February 9, 2026, regarding a proposed rule of information requirements for processing ESTA applications, in response to Executive Order 14161, issued January 2025.
The proposed requirement to provide social media identifiers for ESTA applicants is not yet in effect.
The rule is still under review, and the process includes several steps before any changes are implemented (see estimated timeline below).
The proposed rule is part of ongoing efforts to enhance the security of visa-free travel, but no new requirements are in place as of today. Any new requirements will be formally announced in the Federal Register and communicated broadly before implementation.
Travelers should continue to follow existing ESTA application procedures until further notice.
Proposed rule processing timeline:
- 60-Day Public Comment Period
Ended: February 9, 2026
During the comment period, the public, stakeholders, and interested parties could submit comments on the proposed changes. - Review of Comments
After the comment period closes, the agency (DHS/CBP) reviews all submitted comments and considers them in revising the proposed information collection. - 30-Day Notice
After addressing public comments, the agency will publish a 30-day notice in the Federal Register, announcing its intent to submit the information collection request to the Office of Management and Budget (OMB) for approval.
This notice provides another opportunity for public comment, typically for 30 days. - Submission to OMB
The agency (DHS/CBP) submits the finalized information collection request, along with a summary of comments and responses, to OMB for review. - OMB Review and Approval
OMB reviews the submission and any additional comments received during the 30-day period. OMB may approve, request changes, or deny the information collection.
Implementation
After OMB approval, the agency can implement the new or revised ESTA information collection requirements.
Estimated Timeline:
Public Comment Deadline: February 9, 2026
Agency Review: Immediately following comment period (typically 1–2 months)
30-Day Notice Publication: Estimated March–April 2026
OMB Review: April–May 2026 (duration varies)
Implementation: Upon OMB approval (potentially mid-2026)
Note: These dates are estimates based on standard federal processes and may shift depending on agency and OMB workload.
Reminder: All CBP related media inquiries can be sent directly to CBPMEDIARELATIONS@cbp.dhs.gov