With the FIFA World Cup 2026 just days away, the excitement is building as teams and supporters prepare for their journeys to the United States, Canada, and Mexico. However, for some, the dream of attending the world's biggest football festival has been clouded by strict entry requirements and complex travel authorization processes.
One of the most high-profile cases involved the Iranian football team. Given the ongoing de facto conflict between Iran and the United States, there were significant concerns regarding whether the team would be permitted to enter the US. These tensions previously forced the team to move its training base from Tucson, Arizona, to Tijuana, Mexico.
In a positive turn of events, the issue was seemingly resolved last Friday. Members of the Iranian team were granted visas, clearing their path to enter the United States from Mexico for their initial matches scheduled near Los Angeles.
Beyond specific team disputes, many fans are discovering that a World Cup ticket is not a guarantee of entry. Travelers must still navigate standard immigration protocols. For those heading to the US, this typically means securing an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for Visa Waiver Program participants or obtaining a B-1/B-2 visitor visa.
To address the surge in demand, FIFA and the US government introduced the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (PASS). While the system aims to expedite visa interview appointments for ticket holders, it does not guarantee approval.
Despite these measures, reports of visa denials and ESTA revocations continue to emerge. Supporters and some team members from various countries have reported that previously approved authorizations were delayed or revoked, adding a layer of uncertainty to the festivities.
Reference(s):
World Cup explainer: Could visa issues stop fans & players attending?
cgtn.com
