US will simplify the process for World Cup fans to secure visa appointments
President Donald Trump announced on Monday that the United States will expedite visas for international tourists who have tickets to FIFA World Cup matches that will be held in 11 U.S. cities next year.
Washington will prioritize international fans attending World Cup matches, which will take place from June 11 to July 19, under its visa-interview scheduling system. Matches will also be held in Canada and Mexico.
In the Oval Office, Trump informed reporters that federal organizations had made efforts “to ensure that soccer fans from all around the world are properly vetted and able to come to the U.S. next summer easily.”
According to the president, the wait time for visas has been shortened by his administration to 60 days or less in the majority of countries. According to him, the World Cup has the potential to produce 200,000 jobs and $30 billion.
According to Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the State Department doubled its presence in some nations by adding 400 consular officials to handle visa processing.
“The U.S. is offering prioritized appointments so fans can complete their visa interviews and show they qualify,” Rubio stated.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated at the White House that between 5 and 10 million people would travel to the United States to watch matches.
Fans from 212 nations have already bought over a million tickets, according to FIFA.
More details regarding the priority visa appointment method will be sent to ticket holders in early 2026, according to a statement from the football governing body.
