The United States has announced a relaxation of its visa policy for selected football fans and team members travelling for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The decision comes after concerns over a new immigration policy introduced under President Donald Trump, which requires applicants from about 50 developing countries to pay refundable visa bonds ranging from $5,000 to $15,000 before entering the US. Under the latest adjustment, the US State Department said players, officials and fans from participating countries who already possess World Cup tickets and are enrolled in a priority visa programme will no longer be required to pay the bond. Assistant Secretary of State for Consular Affairs, Mora Namdar, said the move is aimed at balancing security concerns with smooth travel arrangements for the tournament. “We remain committed to strengthening US national security priorities while facilitating legitimate travel for the upcoming World Cup tournament,” Namdar said. She added that the Trump administration intends to deliver what it described as the “biggest and best FIFA World Cup in history.” FIFA also welcomed the development, describing it as part of ongoing cooperation between football authorities and the US government ahead of the tournament. Five countries that have already qualified for the World Cup Algeria, Cape Verde, Ivory Coast, Senegal and Tunisia are among nations affected by the broader visa bond policy. The report also noted that Haiti and Iran, two other qualified countries, face stricter US entry restrictions under separate immigration measures. According to findings by the Mendoza Law Firm, the visa bond requirement could significantly limit travel for supporters from lower-income nations, especially as the highest bond amount exceeds several years of average income in some countries. The 2026 FIFA World Cup will begin on June 11 and will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico.