New Delhi, November 18: The U.S. government has announced a fast-track visa system for international spectators attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup. President Donald Trump confirmed that fans who have already purchased tickets will receive priority access to visa-interview appointments, cutting down the long waits many have faced.
The policy is designed to handle the surge of visitors expected during the tournament, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada. Trump said the State and Homeland Security departments have coordinated to streamline the process while maintaining full vetting standards. He made the announcement after a meeting with FIFA President Gianni Infantino in the Oval Office.
A White House task force created by executive order is driving the effort, with Trump as chairman, Vice President J.D. Vance as vice chairman, and Andrew Giuliani as executive director. The administration has already begun increasing its capacity abroad, with more than 400 additional consular officers deployed to handle interview demand. The State Department has also stated that priority access does not guarantee visa approval; it only guarantees earlier appointment availability.
FIFA has backed the system, calling it a practical step to accommodate millions of fans expected to travel. The U.S. government has noted that interview wait times have already dropped in many countries, with most now offering slots within 60 days.
The World Cup group-stage draw is set for next month at the Kennedy Center. Host cities are preparing for substantial economic gains, though Trump again raised concerns about security and preparedness in certain areas, including Los Angeles. He reiterated that if required, he would deploy the National Guard to ensure smooth operations during the event.
Fans who purchased tickets through FIFA-verified channels will qualify for the priority interview system, which will be critical as the U.S. prepares to host 78 matches across 11 cities between June 11 and July 19, 2026.
Source : Hindustan Samachar
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