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A recently unveiled requirement for World Cup fans journeying to the US to hand over their online account information has been branded "deeply troubling."

Compulsory Submission for ESTA Travelers

According to the proposal, visitors from 42 countries—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 held in the last five-year period. Until now, providing this data was voluntary.

"The US government's announced plans are profoundly unacceptable," said 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, "The measure creates a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that fundamentally opposes the inclusive atmosphere the tournament is meant to embody and it must be withdrawn immediately."

Origins in an Previous Presidential Directive

The plan follows an presidential directive signed by Donald Trump in early 2025 that aims "to guarantee that all foreign nationals wishing to enter the US are thoroughly checked to the maximum degree feasible."

Official Statement and Reasoning

A representative for the border agency offered context on the matter. "This is not a change on this subject for those traveling to the country," the spokesperson stated. "It is not a implemented policy, it is merely the initial phase in starting a discussion to have additional measures to keep the American people secure."

The representative added, "We are continuously evaluating how we screen those coming into the country, especially after the recent incident in the capital. This new proposal is consistent with the January 2025 directive to thoroughly check those who are coming into this country using the visa waiver system by enabling CBP to collect additional information from foreign nationals using the ESTA program."