The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be the largest in history—and the United States is at the center of it all. As excitement builds for this monumental sporting event, the U.S. government has announced it will expedite visa processing for fans traveling to attend the tournament. At Saluja Law, we want to provide clarity on what this means for international visitors, the legal implications, and how the U.S. is preparing to balance global hospitality with national security.

A Historic Hosting Challenge

Following its successful hosting of the 2024 Copa América and the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup, the United States now prepares to welcome the world again for the 2026 World Cup—and soon after, the 2028 Olympics. The scale of this challenge is unprecedented: more teams, more venues, more matches, and millions of fans hoping to cross U.S. borders legally and in time.

Visa Processing Gets a Boost

To meet the demand, Secretary of State Marco Rubio testified before the Homeland Security Subcommittee that U.S. embassies in high-demand regions will operate double shifts. Additionally, the Department of State will implement new technologies, including artificial intelligence tools to streamline visa renewals and reduce processing times for new applications.

For example, in countries like Colombia, where demand for tickets is high, additional staff and resources will be deployed to prevent bureaucratic bottlenecks that could prevent fans from traveling.

Smart Tech Meets Sports Diplomacy

The incorporation of AI into visa processing marks a major development in how the U.S. handles large-scale international events. Automation will allow consular staff to focus on new cases while AI handles repetitive renewal tasks—aiming to shorten timelines without compromising background checks or national security.

This strategy reflects a broader diplomatic message: the U.S. is committed to being a welcoming and well-prepared host while maintaining orderly and lawful entry procedures.

Travel, But Travel Prepared

The Trump administration's return has brought with it stricter immigration enforcement policies, making the screening process more rigorous than in previous years. While the U.S. is opening its doors for the World Cup, those doors come with firm expectations: all documents must be in order, and compliance with immigration law is non-negotiable.

Travelers, especially those from countries with historically long visa wait times, should act now to begin the application process. Legal, timely preparation is essential.

From 1994 to 2026: A Legacy Renewed

This isn't the first time the U.S. has hosted the World Cup. In 1994, the tournament set attendance records and helped ignite widespread interest in soccer across the country. Now, 32 years later, the nation is ready to set new benchmarks—both on and off the field.

President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino have expressed shared concerns about the importance of a smooth and secure World Cup experience. The credibility of the U.S. as a global host is on the line, and that means balancing accessibility with control.

What This Means for You

If you're planning to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup, here are a few key takeaways:

• Start your visa application process now to avoid delays.

• Expect a more thorough screening process due to tightened immigration policies.

• Watch for embassy updates, especially in countries with high ticket demand.

• Plan ahead, as the World Cup experience now begins at the consulate—not the stadium.

At Saluja Law, we'll continue to monitor developments and provide legal guidance to individuals and families seeking to travel to the United States for the World Cup or other major events. If you have questions about your visa status or need help navigating the process, don't hesitate to contact us.

Saluja Law | Immigration Guidance for a Global Stage
📍 www.salujalaw.com
📞 (304) 755-1101
✉️ [email protected]

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