world-economy

Trump Administration Waives Visa Bonds for World Cup Ticket Holders from Five Nations

The State Department has suspended bond requirements for foreign visitors from five countries competing in the 2026 World Cup. The requirement previously demanded payments as high as $15,000 to enter the United States.

Algeria, Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, Senegal and Tunisia—all World Cup qualifiers—are among 50 nations subject to visa bond rules implemented last year due to concerns over visa overstays and security issues. Citizens from these five countries who have purchased FIFA tickets and enrolled in the FIFA Pass system for expedited visa appointments became exempt effective April 15.

Team players, coaches and select staff members were already exempt from the requirement. The waiver represents a rare loosening of immigration restrictions.