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U.S. waives visa bonds for World Cup ticket holders from five qualifying nations
The State Department announced a waiver of the bond requirement for foreign visitors from Algeria, Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, Senegal, and Tunisia who bought FIFA World Cup tickets. The waiver ties to the FIFA Pass system for expedited visa appointments. The World Cup is set to begin on June 11, 2026 and is co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
Why It Matters
This is a rare relaxation of immigration rules tied to a major global sporting event and could affect travel volumes and perceptions of U.S. visa policies during the tournament.
Timeline
4 Events
World Cup schedule noted
May 13, 2026
The article notes that the World Cup begins on June 11, 2026, and is co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Waiver announced for five World Cup ticket holders
May 13, 2026
The State Department suspended the visa bond requirement for citizens from Algeria, Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, Senegal and Tunisia who purchased FIFA World Cup tickets; bonds of up to $15,000 will be waived and refunded if terms are met or if the visa is denied. Players, coaches and some staff had already been exempt.
FIFA Pass opt-in begins
April 15, 2026
FIFA Pass system, which allows expedited visa appointments, was opted in as of April 15 for eligible travelers.
Bond requirement rolled out for 50 countries
2025
The bond requirement was imposed last year for foreign visitors from 50 countries deemed to have high rates of visa overstays or other security concerns.