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A newly proposed mandate for World Cup fans traveling to the US to disclose personal social media profile details has been called "profoundly unacceptable."

Mandatory Disclosure for ESTA Travelers

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

"The US government's proposed measures are deeply concerning," stated Ronan Evain, executive director 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 continued, "This policy creates a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that fundamentally opposes the inclusive atmosphere the World Cup is supposed to represent and it must be withdrawn immediately."

Roots in an Earlier Presidential Directive

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 feasible."

Official Statement and Reasoning

A spokesperson for the border agency provided context on the matter. "Nothing has changed on this subject for those coming to the United States," the spokesperson stated. "This is not a implemented policy, it is simply the first step in initiating a process to have additional measures to keep the American people safe."

The spokesperson added, "We are constantly looking at how we vet those entering the country, particularly after the recent incident in the capital. The measure is consistent with the earlier Executive Order to thoroughly check those who are entering this country using the visa waiver system by enabling CBP to collect additional information from foreign nationals applying through the visa waiver programme."