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A recently unveiled requirement for World Cup supporters journeying to the US to disclose personal social media account information has been called "deeply troubling."

Compulsory Submission for Visa Waiver Applicants

According to the proposal, visitors from dozens of nations—such as the UK—who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be required to provide information about social media accounts they have held in the past five years. Until now, providing this information was optional.

"These proposed measures are profoundly unacceptable," stated Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right of privacy are universal human rights. No supporter gives up those rights just because they enter a country."

He continued, "The measure introduces a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that directly contradicts the welcoming, open spirit the World Cup is supposed to represent and it must be rescinded immediately."

Origins in an Earlier Executive Order

The plan stems from an executive order issued by Donald Trump in early 2025 that aims "to ensure that all foreign nationals seeking admission the US are vetted and screened to the maximum degree feasible."

Government Statement and Reasoning

A spokesperson for US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provided context on the matter. "This is not a change on this subject for those traveling to the United States," the official said. "This is not a final rule, it is simply the first step in starting a discussion to have additional measures to keep the American people secure."

The spokesperson added, "We are constantly looking at how we screen those entering the country, especially after the terrorist attack in Washington DC. This new proposal is in line with the January 2025 Executive Order to thoroughly check those who are entering this country using ESTA by allowing CBP to gather additional information from non-US citizens using the ESTA program."