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A recently unveiled requirement for soccer tournament fans traveling to the United States to disclose their social media account information has been branded "deeply troubling."

Compulsory Disclosure for Visa Waiver Travelers

Under the plan, visitors from dozens of nations—such as the UK—who use the visa waiver program would be obliged to submit information about social media accounts they have held in the last five-year period. Previously, providing this data was voluntary.

"These announced plans are profoundly unacceptable," stated Ronan Evain, head of Football Supporters Europe. "Freedom of expression and the right to privacy are universal human rights. No supporter gives up those rights just because they cross a border."

He added, "The measure introduces a climate of fear of monitoring that fundamentally opposes the welcoming, open spirit the World Cup is supposed to embody and it must be withdrawn immediately."

Roots in an Earlier Executive Order

The plan stems from an executive order issued by former President Trump in early 2025 that aims "to guarantee that all aliens wishing to enter the United States are vetted and screened to the fullest extent possible."

Government Response and Justification

A spokesperson for US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) offered context on the issue. "Nothing has changed on this front for those coming to the country," the spokesperson stated. "It is not a implemented policy, it is simply the initial phase in starting a discussion to have additional measures to keep the American people safe."

The representative added, "We are constantly looking at how we screen those coming into the country, particularly after the recent incident in Washington DC. The measure is consistent with the January 2025 Executive Order to vet those who are coming into this country using the visa waiver system by allowing CBP to collect additional information from non-US citizens using the visa waiver programme."