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A newly proposed requirement for World Cup supporters traveling to the US to hand over personal social media profile details has been branded "profoundly unacceptable."

Compulsory Submission for Visa Waiver Travelers

According to the proposal, tourists 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 maintained in the last five-year period. Previously, providing this information was optional.

"The US government's announced plans are profoundly unacceptable," stated Ronan Evain, head of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right to privacy are universal human rights. No supporter gives up those rights just because they cross a border."

He added, "This policy creates a chilling atmosphere of monitoring that directly contradicts the welcoming, open spirit the tournament is meant to represent and it must be withdrawn immediately."

Origins in an Earlier Presidential Directive

The plan follows an executive order signed by Donald Trump in early 2025 that aims "to guarantee that all aliens seeking admission the United States are thoroughly checked to the fullest extent feasible."

Government Response and Justification

A spokesperson for the border agency offered context on the matter. "Nothing has changed on this subject for those coming to the country," the spokesperson stated. "It is not a implemented policy, it is merely the first step in starting a discussion to have additional measures to keep the public secure."

The representative added, "The department are constantly looking at how we vet those entering the country, particularly after the recent incident in Washington DC. The measure is in line with the January 2025 Executive Order to thoroughly check those who are entering this country using the visa waiver system by enabling CBP to collect further data from foreign nationals applying through the visa waiver programme."