Long Visa Wait Times Could Hinder World Cup Attendance
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup just under 500 days away, soccer fans from around the globe are eager to attend the tournament hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. However, long visa appointment wait times and stricter regulations implemented by the Trump administration could pose significant challenges for international fans hoping to witness the event.
Obtaining a B-1 or B-2 visa, required for tourism purposes, can take anywhere from 600 to 700 days for citizens of Brazil, Colombia, and Turkey. Residents of India, the United Arab Emirates, Peru, and Honduras face wait times exceeding 400 days. This backlog stems from a massive backlog in the U.S. immigration system.
Further complicating matters, President Trump signed an executive order mandating stricter visa issuance procedures and identifying countries requiring enhanced scrutiny. This could lead to even longer wait times and potentially a travel ban for citizens of certain countries, mirroring the controversial travel ban implemented during his first term.
These measures could significantly impact international fan attendance at the World Cup, potentially contradicting Trump's earlier promises of open access for all eligible individuals. While athletes and teams are unlikely to face similar delays due to their P-1 visa eligibility, the situation remains concerning for fans, particularly those from Central and South America, who have been targeted by the Trump administration's policies.
The visa backlog is expected to pose a significant challenge for tourism during the World Cup, potentially hindering the economic benefits the event could bring. David J. Bier, an associate director for immigration studies at the Cato Institute, emphasizes the severity of the issue, particularly for fans from Central and South America.
The long visa wait times and potential travel restrictions pose a significant threat to international fan attendance at the 2026 World Cup. Addressing the visa backlog and ensuring equitable access for all eligible individuals is crucial for the tournament's success and the positive impact it can have on the host countries.
7 Comments
Karamba
This is a slap in the face to all the soccer fans who dream of attending the World Cup. It's a shame.
Matzomaster
Let's show our support for the U.S. team and the other teams competing in the World Cup, regardless of any visa issues.
Rotfront
We can't let political agendas get in the way of sport. Let's welcome the world and make this World Cup a truly global event.
Matzomaster
I urge the U.S. government to reconsider these policies and ensure everyone has a fair chance to attend the World Cup.
Rotfront
This is going to have a negative impact on the atmosphere of the World Cup. Fans from all over the world make the event special.
Bella Ciao
This is going to create a lot of unnecessary stress and hardship for international fans who just want to enjoy the World Cup.
Comandante
This is absolutely ridiculous! Long wait times and travel restrictions are going to hurt the World Cup attendance and the local economy.