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A newly proposed requirement for World Cup supporters traveling to the United States to disclose personal social media profile details has been called "profoundly unacceptable."

Compulsory Disclosure for ESTA Travelers

According to the proposal, tourists from 42 countries—including the UK—who use the visa waiver program would be required to provide information about social media accounts they have held in the last five-year period. Until now, providing this information was optional.

"The US government's proposed measures are deeply concerning," said Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right of privacy are fundamental rights. No supporter gives up those rights just because they cross a border."

He continued, "The measure creates a climate of fear of surveillance that fundamentally opposes the welcoming, open spirit the World Cup is meant to embody and it must be rescinded immediately."

Origins in an Earlier Presidential Directive

The plan follows an executive order signed by former President Trump in early 2025 that aims "to ensure that all aliens wishing to enter the United States are vetted and screened to the maximum degree feasible."

Government Response and Reasoning

A representative for US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offered context on the matter. "Nothing has changed on this subject for those traveling to the United States," the spokesperson said. "It is not a final rule, it is simply the first step in initiating a process to have new policy options to keep the American people secure."

The spokesperson added, "We are continuously evaluating how we vet those entering the country, particularly after the recent attack in Washington DC. The measure is consistent with the January 2025 directive to vet those who are coming into this country using ESTA by allowing CBP to collect additional information from foreign nationals applying through the visa waiver programme."