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A newly proposed requirement for soccer tournament fans traveling to the US to disclose their social media account information has been called "deeply troubling."

Compulsory Disclosure for ESTA Travelers

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

"The US government's proposed measures are profoundly unacceptable," stated Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe. "Freedom of expression and the right to privacy are fundamental rights. No supporter gives up those rights just because they cross a border."

He added, "This policy introduces a climate of fear of surveillance that directly contradicts the welcoming, open spirit the World Cup is meant to represent and it must be rescinded immediately."

Origins in an Previous Executive Order

The plan stems from an presidential directive 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 possible."

Official Statement and Reasoning

A representative for the border agency provided clarification on the issue. "This is not a change on this subject for those traveling to the country," the official said. "It is not a implemented policy, it is simply the initial phase in starting a discussion to have new policy options to keep the American people safe."

The spokesperson added, "The department are constantly looking at how we screen those entering the country, particularly after the terrorist incident 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 enabling CBP to gather further data from foreign nationals using the visa waiver programme."