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A recently unveiled mandate for World Cup fans journeying to the US to disclose their social media profile details has been branded "profoundly unacceptable."

Mandatory Submission for Visa Waiver Applicants

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 details about social media accounts they have maintained in the last five-year period. Previously, submitting this data was voluntary.

"These announced plans are deeply concerning," stated Ronan Evain, head of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right of privacy are fundamental rights. No supporter gives up those rights just because they enter a country."

He continued, "This policy introduces a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that directly contradicts the inclusive atmosphere the tournament is meant to embody and it must be withdrawn at once."

Roots in an Previous Presidential Directive

The plan stems from an presidential directive signed by former President Trump in early 2025 that seeks "to guarantee that all foreign nationals wishing to enter the US are vetted and screened to the fullest extent possible."

Official Statement and Justification

A representative for the border agency provided context on the matter. "This is not a change on this subject for those traveling to the country," the spokesperson said. "This is not a implemented policy, it is merely the first step in starting a discussion to have additional measures to keep the American people safe."

The representative further noted, "The department are constantly looking at how we screen those coming into the country, especially after the terrorist incident in Washington DC. This new proposal is consistent 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 additional information from non-US citizens using the ESTA program."