🔗 Share this article

A recently unveiled requirement for soccer tournament fans journeying to the US to hand over personal online account information has been called "deeply troubling."

Compulsory Submission for ESTA Applicants

According to the proposal, visitors from 42 countries—including the UK—who use the visa waiver program would be required to provide information about social media accounts they have held in the last five-year period. Until now, submitting this information was optional.

"The US government's announced plans are deeply concerning," stated Ronan Evain, head of Football Supporters Europe. "Freedom of expression and the right of privacy are universal human rights. No football fan gives up those rights just because they enter a country."

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of monitoring that fundamentally opposes the welcoming, open spirit the tournament is supposed to embody and it must be withdrawn immediately."

Roots in an Earlier Executive Order

The proposal 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 thoroughly checked to the maximum degree feasible."

Government Statement and Reasoning

A representative for US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) provided context on the matter. "This is not a change on this subject for those coming to the United States," the spokesperson said. "This is not a implemented policy, it is merely the first step in starting a discussion to have additional measures to protect the public safe."

The spokesperson added, "The department are continuously evaluating how we screen those entering 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 ESTA by enabling CBP to gather additional information from non-US citizens using the ESTA program."