A TRAVEL EXPERT has warned European football fans to check their visa status, criminal records and social media before booking World Cup trips.
Under Donald Trump‘s presidency, thousands of football fans from the UK and Europe could be refused entry to the United States due to renewed border policies and social media screening.
Jessie Chambers, from working holiday provider Global Work & Travel, said: “We’re already seeing people being refused entry for things as small as old tweets, minor criminal records, or incorrect ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorisation) answers.
“With Trump’s administration reinstating stricter entry rules, fans need to treat this World Cup as a high-risk travel event — not a holiday you can book last minute.”
Since 2025, US border agents can review social media activity linked to a traveller’s visa application.
Chambers warned: “Offensive posts, political content, or even jokes about security or drugs can raise red flags.
“It’s not about censorship — it’s about perception. The US wants to know exactly who’s entering during such a major global event.”
Even minor offences, like driving bans, can cause visa issues under new US “moral character” clauses.
Chambers said: “We’re telling fans to treat visa prep like match prep — the earlier you start, the less likely you’ll get caught offside by the rules.
“Some people think the ESTA is guaranteed, but even one wrong tick box can see you turned back at the gate.”
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Travellers are encouraged to apply for B-1/B-2 visas early if they’ve ever been arrested or charged.
Trump’s new administration has promised “zero tolerance” on background mismatches, meaning border officials have more power to question and refuse travellers — even if their visas are technically valid.
On Thursday, Donald Trump claimed that FIFA would “easily” move 2026 World Cup matches if he asked as a result of safety concerns.
In a recent statement, FIFA has acknowledged that United States government officials will have the final say on World Cup host cities.
With 11 US host cities expecting millions of international visitors, the World Cup is set to be America’s biggest tourism event in decades.
Chambers added: “It’s not just about the match tickets — it’s about the welcome. For many football fans, this will be their first trip to America. They deserve clarity, not confusion.”
FOLLOW all the build-up to next summer’s World Cup right here including England updates, ticket news and Donald Trump’s latest plans.
