US visa restrictions block World Cup fans from four nations
Supporters from Haiti, Senegal, Ivory Coast and Iran barred from entering US for 2026 tournament.
Fans from Haiti, Senegal, Ivory Coast and Iran will be unable to travel to the United States for the 2026 World Cup due to expanded visa restrictions introduced by the Trump administration.
Nationals from the four qualified countries fall under Presidential Proclamation 10998, which suspends visa issuance citing national security concerns.
Players, team officials and immediate family members have been granted exemptions to compete in the tournament hosted across the US, Canada and Mexico.
However, ordinary supporters wishing to travel will see their applications rejected under the current policy.
The restrictions, which came into effect on 1 January, affect nationals from 39 countries in total.
‘Visas are not a right’
The US State Department confirmed that exceptions to the policy would be “quite rare” and reserved for cases serving the national interest.
A spokesperson emphasised that the administration is prioritising the safety of the American people through strengthened vetting.
“A visa is a privilege. Visas are not a right. Under President Trump, the Department of State is administering visa operations in a way that prioritizes the safety of the American people and our national interests, strengthens screening and vetting, and enforces the law.”
State Department spokesperson
FIFA has given no indication it will pressure American authorities to make exceptions for travelling supporters.
Haiti’s bitter-sweet return
The ban is particularly stinging for Haiti, who have qualified for the finals for the first time since 1974.
The Caribbean nation secured their place despite being unable to play home matches or train within their own borders due to domestic instability.
Regine Etienne, Haiti’s acting consular general in Boston, described the team’s qualification as a “remarkable” achievement.
“Their journey demonstrates that there is still hope for Haiti, and that determination and talent can triumph despite adversity.”
Regine Etienne, Haiti acting consular general
Etienne confirmed the Haitian government is exploring all options but acknowledged that visa issuance remains a “sovereign prerogative” of the US.
Diplomatic appeals
Political figures within the US are attempting to advocate for the affected communities.
New York City Mayor Zohran Mamdani has previously stated he would appeal to the President for a World Cup exception.
Mamdani, who held a meeting at the Oval Office in November, intends to advocate for the banned nations despite the administration’s firm stance.
The mayor declined to confirm if he has discussed the specific issue directly with President Trump.
“It is an opportunity to be seen… I’ll keep conversations between the president and myself private.”
Zohran Mamdani, New York City Mayor