Trump's Controversial Plan for World Cup Tourists to Reveal Online Histories Described as 'Alarming'

A newly proposed requirement for soccer tournament supporters traveling to the US to hand over personal social media profile details has been called "deeply troubling."

Mandatory Submission for Visa Waiver Travelers

Under the plan, visitors from 42 countries—such as the UK—who use the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) would be required to submit details about social media accounts they have maintained in the past five years. Previously, providing this information was voluntary.

"The US government's proposed measures are profoundly unacceptable," stated Ronan Evain, executive director 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, "The measure creates a chilling atmosphere of surveillance that fundamentally opposes the inclusive atmosphere the World Cup is supposed to represent and it must be withdrawn at once."

Roots in an Previous Executive Order

The proposal follows an executive order signed by former President Trump in early 2025 that seeks "to ensure that all foreign nationals wishing to enter the US are vetted and screened to the maximum degree possible."

Government Statement and Reasoning

A representative for the border agency provided clarification on the matter. "This is not a change on this front for those coming to the country," the spokesperson said. "This is not a implemented policy, it is simply the initial phase in starting a discussion to have new policy options to keep the American people safe."

The spokesperson further noted, "The department are constantly looking at how we screen those coming into the country, especially after the recent attack in the capital. The measure is consistent with the January 2025 directive to thoroughly check those who are coming into this country using the visa waiver system by enabling CBP to collect further data from non-US citizens using the visa waiver programme."