Visa delays threaten 2026 FIFA World Cup travel plans, What soccer fans need to know?

Sunday, September 22, 2024

Soccer fans planning to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico may face significant obstacles due to lengthy visa processing times.

The US Travel Association has warned that the window for obtaining a first-time US visitor visa is rapidly closing, especially for travelers from certain countries.

While the US State Department maintains that there is still time for fans to apply for their visas, the reality is that visa processing times have reached an average of 600 days for some applicants.

This poses a major challenge for those hoping to support their favorite teams in the highly anticipated sporting event.

“If you don’t have your visa today, you’re not getting here for a World Cup that’s taking place in 2026,” Geoff Freeman, president and chief executive of the US Travel Association, emphasized at a recent press event.

The US State Department has acknowledged the visa processing delays but insists that the situation is not as dire as some perceive.

They claim to be regularly assessing capacity and wait times in countries likely to participate in the tournament.

“While we encourage prospective FIFA World Cup visitors who will need U.S. visas to apply now, there is still plenty of time for fans to apply for their visas,” a State Department spokesperson stated.

However, experts advise that travelers should not delay their visa applications. The longer they wait, the greater the risk of missing out on the World Cup due to visa processing backlogs.

To increase their chances of obtaining a visa in time, fans are encouraged to:

Apply as soon as possible: The earlier they submit their application, the better their chances of receiving a visa before the tournament begins.
Provide complete and accurate documentation: Ensure that all required documents are submitted on time and that the information provided is accurate.
Follow up regularly: Check the status of their visa application and be prepared to provide additional information if needed.
It is also important to note that the visa application process can be complex and time-consuming.

Travelers may need to attend an interview at a US embassy or consulate, which can be challenging to schedule, especially during peak travel seasons.

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, it is crucial for fans to be aware of the potential visa hurdles and take proactive steps to secure their travel plans.

By applying early and following the necessary procedures, they can increase their chances of experiencing this global sporting spectacle firsthand.

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