U.S. eases visa deposit rules for some World Cup 2026 fans

The United States announced Wednesday it would ease financial deposit requirements imposed on some visa applicants seeking to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a move aimed at facilitating travel for supporters ahead of next summer’s tournament.

Under immigration measures introduced by the administration of Donald Trump, citizens from 50 developing countries had been required to place refundable deposits ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 as a condition for obtaining entry visas. The funds would be returned after travelers departed U.S. territory.

The United States Department of State said new exemptions will apply to members of participating national teams as well as fans from qualified countries who hold official match tickets and are registered under a special World Cup visa priority system.

Mora Namdar, assistant secretary of state for consular affairs, said Washington remains committed to protecting national security while facilitating legitimate travel linked to the tournament.

“The United States is committed to hosting the biggest and best FIFA World Cup in history,” Namdar said in a statement.

FIFA welcomed the decision, describing it as evidence of close cooperation with the U.S. government and the White House task force overseeing preparations for the tournament.

Countries whose citizens remain subject to the deposit system include Algeria, Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, Senegal and Tunisia, all of which have qualified for the competition.

Other qualified nations, including Haiti and Iran, continue to face stricter entry restrictions.

The Trump administration has also expanded traveler screening measures, including requests for some visitors from allied countries to provide access to their social media accounts as part of visa vetting procedures.

According to a study by Mendoza Law Firm, the required deposits in some countries amount to nearly three years of average income, raising concerns that thousands of supporters could be unable to attend the tournament.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled to begin June 11 and will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.