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US Envoy Denies Social Media Checks for Tourists, Assures World Cup Visitors
🇵🇾 Paraguay /Culture & Society

US Envoy Denies Social Media Checks for Tourists, Assures World Cup Visitors

From ABC Color · (10m ago) Spanish

Translated from Spanish, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.

TLDR

  • The U.S. special envoy for tourism, Nick Adams, denied that social media screening for tourists has been implemented.
  • Adams stated that the proposed review of social media histories for visa applicants is not a problem for the 2026 World Cup.
  • He addressed concerns that such a policy would deter international visitors, calling the idea "nonsense" and "garbage."

The United States remains committed to welcoming international visitors, dispelling rumors that social media checks are a barrier to entry, especially with the 2026 World Cup on the horizon. Nick Adams, the U.S. Special Envoy for Tourism, clarified that the proposed review of social media histories for visa applicants has not been implemented and will not pose an issue for the upcoming global sporting event.

From now on, it has certainly not been implemented.

— Nick AdamsThe U.S. Special Envoy for Tourism denied the implementation of social media screening for tourists.

Adams described the notion of mandatory social media screening as "nonsense" and "garbage," suggesting that such misinformation is deliberately spread to harm the United States' image. He emphasized that the U.S. values international tourism and aims to ensure a smooth and welcoming experience for all visitors, particularly during significant events like the World Cup. The envoy's remarks aim to reassure potential tourists and counter negative perceptions that could deter travel.

While a previous proposal under the Trump administration suggested requiring social media history from visa-exempt travelers, Adams stressed that this policy is not in effect. He acknowledged that some international friends express concerns about privacy and the potential need to delete social media accounts before traveling, but attributed these fears to "lies and falsehoods" propagated by the media. The U.S. envoy's statements are intended to foster confidence and encourage participation in events hosted by the U.S., reinforcing its position as a desirable global destination.

It's nonsense, garbage, a load of rubbish. And the truth is that's the perception. You're right. I hear my friends in other countries telling me: 'I want a disposable phone' or 'I want to delete my social media before I come,' but it's because they've read and heard lies and falsehoods from many people in your profession.

— Nick AdamsAdams strongly refuted claims about social media checks, attributing such fears to misinformation.

Adams's comments come as the World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, approaches. The envoy assured that anyone visiting the U.S. with the intention of enjoying the event and adhering to legal processes will likely face no resistance. This assurance is crucial for maintaining the flow of tourism and ensuring the success of major international gatherings.

We love receiving international visitors, it's part of the American experience.

— Nick AdamsThe envoy emphasized the U.S.'s welcoming stance towards international tourists.
DistantNews Editorial

Originally published by ABC Color in Spanish. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.

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