U.S. gov't to add staff for WC visa applications

"The department said Thursday it will send hundreds of additional consular officers to "designated countries" to handle the demand for visa interviews. The number of staffers and the countries where they will go have yet to be determined because the 48-team field for the 2026 World Cup has not been finalized. Tickets for the tournament hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico went on sale Wednesday amid concerns over the Trump administration's crackdown on migration and temporary visas that offer permission to enter the United States."

"World Cup travelers coming to the U.S. from the mainly European and Asian countries that are part of the Visa Waiver Program will not likely require an interview. But fans from countries not enrolled in the program and who do not already hold valid tourist or business visas will need to apply, a process that requires an in-person interview and enhanced security screening. The State Department said it "is prepared to meet the demand while maintaining rigorous vetting requirements.""

The State Department will increase staffing at select U.S. embassies and consulates to handle a major rise in visa applications from fans for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The department plans to send hundreds of additional consular officers to designated countries for visa interviews, though specific numbers and destinations await finalization of the 48-team field. Tickets for the tournament hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico have gone on sale amid concerns over the Trump administration's migration and temporary visa policies. Enhanced social media checks and deportations have already resulted from the new visa policies. Travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries likely will not need interviews. Fans from non-WVP countries without valid visas must undergo in-person interviews and enhanced security screening. In roughly 80% of relevant countries, visa interview appointments can be scheduled within two months. The State Department says it is prepared to meet demand while maintaining rigorous vetting.

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