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A newly proposed requirement for World Cup supporters traveling to the US to disclose their online account information has been called "deeply troubling."

Mandatory Submission for Visa Waiver Applicants

According to the proposal, tourists from 42 countries—including the UK—who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be obliged to submit details about online accounts they have held in the last five-year period. Until now, submitting this information was optional.

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

He continued, "This policy introduces a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that directly contradicts the welcoming, open spirit the tournament is meant to represent and it must be rescinded at once."

Origins in an Earlier Executive Order

The proposal follows an executive order issued by former President Trump in January that aims "to ensure that all foreign nationals wishing to enter the US are thoroughly checked to the fullest extent feasible."

Government Response and Reasoning

A spokesperson for US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provided clarification on the matter. "This is not a change on this subject for those traveling to the United States," the spokesperson said. "This is not a final rule, it is merely the initial phase in starting a discussion to have new policy options to keep the American people secure."

The representative added, "The department are continuously evaluating how we vet those coming into the country, particularly after the terrorist attack in Washington DC. The measure is consistent with the January 2025 directive to thoroughly check those who are entering this country using the visa waiver system by allowing CBP to collect additional information from non-US citizens using the visa waiver programme."