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A newly proposed mandate for soccer tournament fans journeying to the United States to disclose personal social media account information has been branded "profoundly unacceptable."

Mandatory Submission for ESTA Travelers

According to the proposal, visitors from dozens of nations—including the UK—who use the visa waiver program would be required to provide details about social media accounts they have held in the last five-year period. Until now, submitting this information was optional.

"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 fundamental rights. No football fan gives up those rights just because they cross a border."

He added, "This policy introduces a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that fundamentally opposes the welcoming, open spirit the tournament is supposed to represent and it must be rescinded at once."

Roots in an Earlier Presidential Directive

The proposal follows an executive order signed by former President Trump in early 2025 that aims "to ensure that all aliens seeking admission the United States are thoroughly checked to the maximum degree feasible."

Official Response and Reasoning

A representative for the border agency provided context on the issue. "This is not a change on this subject for those coming to the country," the official said. "It is not a final rule, it is merely the first step in starting a discussion to have new policy options to keep the American people safe."

The representative further noted, "The department are constantly looking at how we screen those coming into the country, especially after the terrorist attack in the capital. This new proposal is consistent with the January 2025 directive to thoroughly check those who are coming into this country using ESTA by allowing CBP to gather additional information from foreign nationals using the visa waiver programme."