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A newly proposed requirement for World Cup supporters journeying to the United States to disclose personal online account information has been called "deeply troubling."

Compulsory Disclosure for ESTA Applicants

Under the plan, tourists from 42 countries—including the UK—who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be required to provide information about online accounts they have maintained in the past five years. Previously, submitting this information was optional.

"The US government's proposed measures are profoundly unacceptable," 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 added, "This policy creates a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that fundamentally opposes the inclusive atmosphere the World Cup is meant to embody and it must be withdrawn immediately."

Origins in an Earlier Presidential Directive

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

Official Statement and Justification

A representative for the border agency offered context on the matter. "Nothing has changed on this front for those coming to the United States," the official said. "It is not a implemented policy, it is simply the first step in starting a discussion to have additional measures to protect the American people secure."

The representative added, "We are constantly looking at how we screen those entering the country, particularly after the terrorist attack in the capital. The measure is consistent with the January 2025 Executive Order to thoroughly check those who are coming into this country using the visa waiver system by allowing CBP to collect further data from non-US citizens using the visa waiver programme."