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A recently unveiled requirement for World Cup supporters traveling to the United States to disclose personal social media account information has been called "profoundly unacceptable."

Compulsory Submission for ESTA Applicants

Under the plan, tourists from dozens of nations—such as the UK—who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be obliged to provide information about social media accounts they have maintained in the last five-year period. Previously, providing this data was voluntary.

"The US government's announced plans are profoundly unacceptable," stated Ronan Evain, executive director of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right of privacy are fundamental rights. No football fan gives up those rights just because they enter a country."

He continued, "This policy introduces a chilling atmosphere of monitoring that fundamentally opposes the welcoming, open spirit the tournament is meant to represent and it must be withdrawn at once."

Roots in an Previous Executive Order

The proposal stems from an presidential directive issued by Donald Trump in early 2025 that seeks "to ensure that all aliens wishing to enter the US are thoroughly checked to the fullest extent possible."

Government Statement and Justification

A spokesperson for the border agency provided context on the issue. "This is not a change on this subject for those traveling to the United States," the official stated. "It is not a final rule, it is simply the initial phase in starting a discussion to have new policy options to keep the American people secure."

The representative further noted, "We are continuously evaluating how we screen those coming into the country, particularly after the terrorist attack in the capital. This new proposal is in line with the January 2025 directive to vet those who are entering this country using the visa waiver system by allowing CBP to collect further data from non-US citizens using the ESTA program."