U.S. State Department Prepares for FIFA World Cup Visa Surge
In anticipation of a surge in visa requests from soccer enthusiasts eager to attend the FIFA World Cup in 2026, the U.S. State Department has announced plans to bolster staff at certain embassies and consulates. On Thursday, officials revealed that hundreds of additional consular officers will be dispatched to select “designated countries” in order to manage the expected increase in visa interview demands. The specific number of positions and the exact countries involved are still to be determined since the 48-team lineup for the World Cup is yet to be finalized.
Ticket Sales and Immigration Concerns
Tickets for the tournament, which will take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, went on sale this Wednesday. This rollout comes against a backdrop of concern surrounding recent U.S. immigration policies, particularly those enforced during the Trump administration aimed at decreasing migration and scrutinizing temporary visa applications more stringently. These policies have led to heightened vetting of foreign visa applicants, including checks on social media accounts and public statements.
Visa Application Process
Travelers from countries involved in the Visa Waiver Program, which encompasses many European and Asian nations, are likely to skip the interview process. However, fans traveling from nations not part of this program, who lack existing tourist or business visas, must apply for a visa in person, undergoing a more thorough security evaluation. The State Department has reassured the public that it is equipped to manage the anticipated demand while still adhering to strict vetting standards.
Efforts to Streamline Visa Processing
According to the department, in approximately 80% of countries that either have qualified for the World Cup or are in contention, visa interview slots can be booked within a two-month window. To ensure efficient processing of the expected applications, the department plans to further augment its workforce in the coming months. Fans are encouraged to initiate their visa applications as early as possible, noting that passport and visa services will continue uninterrupted during the current U.S. government shutdown that commenced this week.
