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A recently unveiled mandate for World Cup supporters journeying to the US to disclose personal social media account information has been called "profoundly unacceptable."

Compulsory Submission for ESTA Applicants

Under the plan, visitors from 42 countries—including the UK—who use the visa waiver program would be obliged to submit information about social media accounts they have held in the last five-year period. Previously, providing this information was voluntary.

"The US government's proposed measures are deeply concerning," said Ronan Evain, head of Football Supporters Europe. "Free speech and the right to privacy are fundamental rights. No supporter surrenders those rights just because they cross a border."

He continued, "This policy creates a climate of fear of monitoring that directly contradicts the welcoming, open spirit the World Cup is meant to embody and it must be withdrawn at once."

Roots in an Previous Executive Order

The plan follows an executive order issued by former President Trump in early 2025 that aims "to ensure that all aliens wishing to enter the US are thoroughly checked to the maximum degree possible."

Official Statement and Justification

A representative for the border agency provided clarification on the matter. "This is not a change on this subject for those traveling to the United States," the official stated. "It is not a implemented policy, it is simply the initial phase in initiating a process to have new policy options to protect the public secure."

The spokesperson added, "We are constantly looking at how we vet those coming into the country, especially after the recent attack in the capital. The measure is consistent with the earlier directive to thoroughly check those who are coming into this country using ESTA by enabling CBP to gather additional information from foreign nationals using the visa waiver programme."