Policy shift aims to balance tighter immigration controls with smoother travel for the 2026 FIFA World Cup across the US, Canada, and Mexico

The United States has announced plans to ease parts of its visa policy for football fans traveling to the country for the FIFA World Cup, introducing waivers on controversial bond requirements for select applicants.

Under a broader immigration crackdown by President Donald Trump’s administration, the US recently began requiring some visa applicants from developing countries to pay refundable bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000. The measure is intended to ensure visitors return to their home countries after their stay.

However, in a shift ahead of the World Cup, the US State Department said it would waive these bond requirements for participating team members and certain fans from competing nations.

Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs, Mora Namdar, said the move reflects a balance between national security and facilitating international travel.

“We remain committed to strengthening US national security priorities while facilitating legitimate travel for the upcoming World Cup tournament,” Namdar said.

The Trump administration has repeatedly stated its ambition to host what it describes as the “biggest and best” FIFA World Cup in history.

FIFA also welcomed the development, highlighting ongoing cooperation with US authorities.

“Today’s announcement from the US State Department further demonstrates our ongoing collaboration with the US government and the White House Task Force for the FIFA World Cup to deliver a successful, record-breaking, and unforgettable global event,” a FIFA spokesperson said.

Some of the countries whose nationals are affected by the visa bond policy—and which have qualified for the tournament—include Algeria, Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, Senegal, and Tunisia.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to kick off on June 11 and will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.