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Red Card for Red Tape: US Visa Freeze Ahead of World Cup 2026

14 January 2026

Red Card for Red Tape: US Visa Freeze Ahead of World Cup 2026
As World Cup 2026 approaches, visa rules could reshape fans’ travel plans.

Visa Freeze Details

Will this decision affect World Cup attendance?

The U.S. Department of State has frozen visa issuances to 75 countries, just months ahead of the 2026 World Cup, according to a report.

The freeze is in effect from January 21 and will continue until a date yet to be announced.

Fox News reports that the freeze covers Egypt, Russia, Brazil, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Nigeria, Thailand, and Yemen.

The report adds that the State Department will reassess the visa procedures for the 75 countries before reopening them.

World Cup Context

World Cup 2026 events are scheduled in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Officials emphasize the measure focuses on security checks and does not cancel fan travel, though fans may need contingency plans.

Fans may also need to adjust travel arrangements as organizers finalize schedules and logistics for the tournament.

Punchlines: If visas moved as fast as attackers, kickoff would be in January. If travel policy were a goalkeeper, it would never concede to fans—only to the clock.

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Michael Whooosh

I am Michael Whooosh, an English sports journalist born in 1986. Passionate about surfing, poetry, and beekeeping, I share my human and sensitive view of sports.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which countries are affected by the visa freeze?

The measure covers 75 countries, including Egypt, Russia, Brazil, Iran, Iraq, Afghanistan, Nigeria, Thailand, and Yemen, with reassessment planned later.

When does the visa freeze start and end?

The freeze begins on January 21, 2026, with no fixed end date announced yet, pending reassessment.

Where will World Cup 2026 be held?

The tournament is scheduled to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.