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A recently unveiled requirement for World Cup supporters traveling to the United States to disclose their online account information has been called "deeply troubling."

Mandatory Disclosure for Visa Waiver Travelers

According to the proposal, tourists from dozens of nations—including the UK—who use the visa waiver program would be required to submit information about social media accounts they have maintained in the last five-year period. Until now, submitting this data was voluntary.

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

He continued, "The measure introduces a climate of fear of surveillance that directly contradicts the welcoming, open spirit the tournament is supposed to embody and it must be rescinded at once."

Origins in an Earlier Presidential Directive

The proposal stems from an presidential directive signed by former President Trump in early 2025 that aims "to guarantee that all foreign nationals wishing to enter the United States are thoroughly checked to the fullest extent possible."

Government Statement and Reasoning

A representative for the border agency offered clarification on the issue. "This is not a change on this subject for those coming to the country," the spokesperson stated. "It is not a implemented policy, it is simply the first step in starting a discussion to have new policy options to keep the public secure."

The representative added, "We are constantly looking at how we screen those entering the country, especially after the terrorist incident in Washington DC. The measure is consistent with the earlier Executive Order to vet those who are entering this country using ESTA by allowing CBP to collect additional information from foreign nationals applying through the visa waiver programme."