The 2026 World Cup is facing a new layer of uncertainty after US President Donald Trump‘s administration announced a sweeping pause on visa processing for applicants from dozens of countries, a move that has sparked concern among fans and tournament organizers alike.
While officials stress the policy targets immigration procedures rather than tourism, the overlap with several competing nations has created confusion at a critical moment in planning.
An internal State Department memo circulated this week directed U.S. consulates to halt visa processing for applicants from 75 countries while screening and vetting standards are reassessed.
Of those nations, 15 are scheduled to be represented in the tournament being staged across the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Among them are global heavyweights such as Brazil and Uruguay, as well as Morocco, Senegal, and Colombia.
State Department spokesperson Tommy Pigott said the department is relying on existing authority to deny applications from individuals deemed likely to rely on public assistance.
“The State Department will use its long-standing authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge on the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people,” Pigott said.
He added that immigration processing from the affected countries will be paused while procedures are reassessed.
What the policy actually covers and why confusion remains
The pause is expected to begin January 21 and is described as indefinite. Officials have said limited exceptions may be granted, though they have not outlined specific criteria. Importantly, the suspension applies to immigrant visas, which cover long term residency and employment.
Non immigrant visas, such as tourist and student travel documents, are not included, meaning fans traveling temporarily for matches should technically still be eligible to enter the country.
That distinction, however, has not fully eased concerns. Processing delays, inconsistent interpretation at consulates, and a lack of formal guidance have left many supporters uncertain about timelines, particularly those from countries already facing extended wait periods.
The list of affected World Cup nations includes Brazil, Morocco, Haiti, Algeria, Cape Verde, Colombia, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Ghana, Iran, Jordan, Senegal, Tunisia, Uruguay, and Uzbekistan.
The impact could be especially noticeable in Scotland‘s Group C, where three of the four teams, Brazil, Morocco, and Haiti, fall under the policy. Group matches scheduled in Foxborough and Miami could see reduced traveling support if delays persist.
The visa freeze arrives amid a broader immigration crackdown pursued by the Trump administration since returning to office.
In recent months, the White House has emphasized stricter enforcement of “public charge” rules and broader screening measures. Geopolitical tensions, including developments involving Iran, have also shaped the administration’s posture on border and visa controls.
FIFA has not yet issued a formal statement on how the policy may affect fan access, though organizers are expected to seek clarification from U.S. officials.
With millions of international visitors anticipated for the tournament, even limited uncertainty carries logistical and economic implications for host cities and event planners.
For now, the tournament itself remains unaffected, but the episode highlights how quickly political decisions can intersect with global sport.
As fans finalize travel plans and organizers fine tune operations, clarity from authorities will be essential to ensure the World Cup remains as accessible as its worldwide audience expects.
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