The United States will expedite visa processing for international visitors holding tickets to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, President Donald Trump announced on Monday. Matches will be hosted across 11 U.S. cities, with additional games in Mexico and Canada from June 11 to July 19. A new scheduling system for visa-interview appointments will prioritize foreign fans, ensuring they are vetted and able to travel to the U.S. with ease.
Trump said wait times for visa issuance have already been reduced to 60 days or fewer in most countries, crediting interagency efforts to increase efficiency. He noted the World Cup could generate up to $30 billion in revenue and create around 200,000 jobs. Secretary of State Marco Rubio confirmed that 400 additional consular officers have been deployed worldwide to meet expected demand.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, speaking at the White House, estimated that 5 to 10 million international visitors may travel to the U.S. for the tournament. FIFA reported that more than one million tickets have already been purchased by fans from 212 countries. Ticket holders will receive further details on the priority visa system in early 2026, the organization said.
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