Florida Joins California, New York, Nevada, Texas, and More in Bracing for a Tourism Catastrophe: Proposed ESTA Changes Could Shatter U.S. Travel, Cutting Billions and Crippling Jobs!

Published on February 18, 2026

The U.S. tourism industry finds itself on the brink of a significant economic upheaval, as the U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has put forth sweeping changes to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). The proposed modifications threaten to severely impact international tourism, particularly for travelers hailing from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries, which currently permit visitors from 42 nations to enter the U.S. for short stays without a visa.

What Are the Proposed Changes to ESTA?

Since its inception as part of the VWP, the ESTA has been a vital tool in U.S. border control, allowing citizens from specific countries to visit for tourism and business. Under the current framework, travelers can apply online, providing basic biographical details and answering security-related questions. However, the new proposals seek to expand the amount of information required, which includes:

• Social Media Disclosure: Mandatory listing of all social media handles used in the past five years.
• More Extensive Personal Information: Submission of ten years of email addresses and five years of phone numbers.
• Detailed Family Information: Inclusion of family member details, such as names, birth dates, and current residences.
• Biometric Data: Possible expansion to include iris scans, fingerprints, and even DNA samples in some cases.
• Mobile-Only Application Process: Transitioning to a mobile-only application system, phasing out the traditional website.

While the CBP positions these measures as essential for national security, industry experts warn of potentially devastating economic ramifications.

The Economic Impact: Billions in Losses and Job Cuts

The World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), in conjunction with Oxford Economics, warns that these proposed changes could lead to a drastic decline in international visitors, resulting in substantial losses in tourism spending. Key projections highlight the gravity of the situation:

• Loss of $15.7 Billion in international visitor spending by 2026.
• 157,000 Jobs at risk within the U.S. travel and tourism sector.
• A 4.7 million decrease in international visitors, a projected 24% drop from current trends.
• $21.5 billion in lost GDP for the travel and tourism sector.

Such figures underscore severe threats to the U.S. economy, especially in states and cities heavily reliant on international tourism. Sectors such as hotels, airlines, and tourism attractions face a looming financial crisis.

Why Are These Changes Happening Now?

These proposals stem from national security priorities articulated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) following executive orders issued in 2025. The DHS aims for maximum vetting of foreign visitors to enhance safety and mitigate risks. By demanding comprehensive background information, including social media and personal history, the CBP aims for a more rigorous vetting system.

Furthermore, with the 2026 FIFA World Cup on the horizon, there is an urgent expectation for an influx of international visitors. The revised entry requirements risk deterring tourists from attending this prestigious global event, pushing them toward less stringent host countries like Mexico or Canada.

The Privacy and Business Concerns: How Will Tourists React?

Recent surveys conducted by the WTTC reveal that 34% of international travelers would be less inclined to visit the U.S. if the new ESTA requirements were implemented. Privacy issues and the perception of increased surveillance have emerged as primary concerns among potential visitors.

In terms of business travel, the Meetings, Incentives, Conferences, and Exhibitions (MICE) sector could face significant challenges. Companies that traditionally host events in the U.S. may consider relocating to countries with friendlier visa processes, further exacerbating the economic fallout.

States Most at Risk: How U.S. Cities Will Be Affected

The states with the most reliance on international tourism are poised to experience severe repercussions:

Florida: The Sunshine State Faces Major Setbacks

As America’s top tourist destination, Florida draws millions of international visitors. Key areas such as Orlando, home to Disney World, and Miami, known for shopping and nightlife, rely heavily on this influx for economic stability.

• Orlando: The theme parks may face steep revenue losses.
• Miami: The luxury retail sector could see a downturn as fewer international shoppers arrive.

California: The Gateway to the U.S.

California serves as a major entry point for visitors from Europe, Asia, and Latin America. A decline in tourism could severely impact:

• Hollywood Tourism: Fewer visitors may visit iconic attractions, reducing engagement.
• Silicon Valley: Increased data requirements might deter international business travelers.

New York: The Big Apple’s Tourism Decline

New York City deeply relies on international visitors, with significant implications for its economy.

• Broadway: Reduced ticket sales from international visitors would hit the theater market hard.
• Hotels and Shopping: A dip in international shoppers could jeopardize revenues in Times Square and Fifth Avenue.

Nevada: Las Vegas Faces Major Losses

Las Vegas thrives on international tourists known for their high spending. Any decline in this demographic would adversely affect the financial well-being of the city.

• Gaming and Hotels: A projected 20% drop in international visitors could severely hinder revenue streams.

Texas: The Lone Star State and the World Cup

As a co-host for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Texas anticipates a surge in international arrivals. However, the new ESTA requirements could deter fans from attending matches, creating further economic instability.

A Political and Industry Pushback: Will the Rules Be Reversed?

As the proposed changes advance, there is growing pushback from politicians and industry representatives. Some U.S. Senators are advocating for the reversal of the new social media and biometric data requirements, citing concerns over the adverse effects on the tourism sector.

Industry voices argue that the balance between security measures and economic viability must be carefully weighed to ensure tourism remains a vital component of the U.S. economy.

The travel industry is watching closely as these plans unfold, with regions like Florida, California, New York, Nevada, and Texas most acutely affected by the proposed changes.