President Donald Trump (Trump) has announced that the United States is establishing a priority visa system for teams and fans of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
On Monday, Trump stated that foreign fans holding World Cup tickets will benefit from this “priority reservation system” as the US will expedite visa processing, eliminating long wait times.
According to a statement from the International Federation of Association Football (FIFA), this initiative is spearheaded by the US State Department. Fans holding official FIFA ticket proof will receive priority for visa interviews. The priority interviews are expected to start in early 2026.
The President mentioned that the State Department and the Department of Homeland Security are closely collaborating to “ensure that soccer fans from around the world receive proper screening and can smoothly travel to the United States next summer.”
The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada for the first time, projecting to draw a large number of international fans and bring substantial economic benefits to the host cities.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino met with President Trump in the Oval Office on Monday and emphasized that “security is the top priority for successfully hosting the World Cup.”
On the same day, the White House World Cup Special Task Force held a meeting. This task force is responsible for logistical and security coordination for this top international football event. Established by presidential executive order, the task force coordinates federal agency participation in the planning, organization, and execution of the World Cup; President Trump serves as the chairman, with Vice President JD Vance as the vice-chairman.
In December, the World Cup group stage draw ceremony will take place at the Kennedy Center.
President Trump, a sports enthusiast, has attended numerous top sporting events since returning to office. He has been actively involved in the preparations for the 2026 World Cup and has been actively promoting the event.
While committing to providing convenient travel and visa arrangements for World Cup participating teams, Trump has continued to pressure the host cities governed by the Democratic Party.
In October, Trump threatened to relocate the World Cup matches and the 2028 Olympics from cities like Boston and Los Angeles if he deemed them unprepared or facing security risks.
On Monday, the President reiterated this stance. When asked about the timing of such decisions, he expressed willingness to assist cities requesting deployment of troops to maintain order.
“You know, governors have to do it, mayors have to do it. California, the example of California, where you have a high crime rate and (Los Angeles) just suffered severe wildfires and other disasters, they’re not doing a good job,” he said.
“I love Los Angeles. If they need help, I’m more than willing to deploy the National Guard or any necessary force to assist them. I hope everything goes smoothly. I hope the matches can proceed in Los Angeles as scheduled,” President Trump added.