Concerns are mounting ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup following reports of expanded U.S. visa suspensions and stricter immigration controls affecting citizens from several countries already qualified for the tournament.

While FIFA has received assurances that players, officials, and accredited team personnel will be granted entry under special exemptions, the situation poses serious challenges for fans, media workers, and non-official delegations hoping to attend matches hosted in the United States.

Below is a breakdown of the qualified countries reportedly affected and the implications for each.

1. Algeria

Algeria has secured qualification for the 2026 World Cup and remains one of Africa’s strongest representatives. However, Algerian citizens are among those facing tighter U.S. visa scrutiny. Although the national team is expected to receive full clearance, supporters and independent media personnel could experience prolonged visa processing or outright denials.

2. Brazil

Brazil, one of the first teams to qualify from South America, is also affected by visa processing suspensions applying to several countries. While Brazil’s football federation and players are expected to be protected by tournament exemptions, the restrictions may significantly limit the number of Brazilian fans able to travel to U.S. host cities.

3. Cape Verde

Cape Verde’s qualification marks a historic achievement for the island nation. Despite this milestone, travel limitations for Cape Verdean citizens could dampen celebrations, as supporters may face challenges securing visas to attend matches in the United States.

4. Colombia

Colombia has returned to the World Cup stage but is also listed among countries affected by visa-related suspensions. Fan groups and football tour operators have already raised concerns over uncertainty surrounding travel approvals ahead of the tournament.

5. Côte d’Ivoire

The Ivorian national team booked their place at the expanded 48-team World Cup. However, visa restrictions affecting ordinary citizens could prevent large numbers of supporters from traveling, potentially reducing African fan presence at U.S.-based fixtures.

6. Egypt

Egypt’s qualification ensures the presence of one of Africa’s most followed teams. Still, Egyptian citizens may encounter administrative hurdles under current U.S. immigration measures, creating logistical difficulties for fans planning early travel.

7. Ghana

Ghana’s return to the World Cup has been met with enthusiasm, but visa challenges may restrict supporter turnout. The situation is particularly sensitive given Ghana’s large football-loving diaspora that typically travels in large numbers for major tournaments.

8. Haiti

Haiti’s qualification is considered historic, but it comes amid existing U.S. travel and immigration restrictions affecting Haitian nationals. This could severely limit fan attendance and non-official participation during the tournament.

9. Iran

Iran qualified early for the 2026 World Cup and is among the most impacted nations due to longstanding U.S. travel bans and restrictions. While the team is expected to enter under FIFA and diplomatic exemptions, Iranian fans face some of the strictest barriers to attending matches in the United States.

10. Jordan

Jordan’s qualification represents a major footballing achievement. However, visa processing pauses affecting Jordanian citizens could complicate travel for supporters and football stakeholders outside official team delegations.

11. Morocco

Morocco, semi-finalists at the 2022 World Cup and now qualified again, are also affected by visa policy changes. Concerns have been raised that Moroccan fans, who are known for strong international support, may be underrepresented at U.S. venues.

12. Senegal

Senegal’s qualification continues their recent World Cup consistency. However, visa restrictions affecting Senegalese nationals could prevent many supporters from attending, prompting concerns from fan associations and diaspora groups.

13. Tunisia

Tunisia have once again reached the World Cup but face similar challenges, with visa processing suspensions potentially limiting travel for fans and independent media.

14. Uruguay

Uruguay’s qualification from South America is not in doubt, but visa complications affecting Uruguayan citizens could reduce fan turnout, particularly for matches scheduled in U.S. cities.

15. Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan has qualified for the World Cup for the first time in their history. Despite the significance of the achievement, visa restrictions could prevent many supporters from witnessing the historic moment in person.

Overall implications

FIFA and U.S. authorities have indicated that players, coaches, match officials, and essential tournament staff will be granted entry under special provisions. However, the broader impact on fans, supporters’ groups, journalists, and football tourists remains a major concern. With the United States hosting the majority of matches, visa accessibility may play a significant role in shaping the atmosphere, attendance, and global inclusivity of the 2026 World Cup.

As the tournament approaches, pressure is expected to mount on U.S. authorities and FIFA to clarify exemptions and ensure that the world’s biggest sporting event remains accessible to supporters from all qualified nations. (The Nation)