US Government Prioritizes Visas for Soccer Fans Ahead of World Cup, Olympics and Other Major Events
In a move aimed at ensuring a successful experience for foreign fans attending major sporting events in the US, the Trump administration has instructed its diplomatic missions to prioritize visa applications from individuals planning to visit the country to watch soccer matches, attend the 2028 Olympics, or participate in other significant events.
According to a series of cables sent to all US embassies and consulates, applicants seeking "significant investments" in the US will be given top priority along with those wishing to travel for major sporting events that showcase American excellence. These events include the upcoming World Cup draw.
However, foreign nationals applying for "B1" or "B2" visas, which are typically granted for business or tourism purposes, may face longer wait times due to an increased demand for consular services. To mitigate this, the State Department has deployed over 400 additional consular officers worldwide to handle visa applications.
The administration has also introduced new guidelines for highly skilled foreign workers seeking H-1B visas, which are granted to individuals with specialized skills in areas such as technology and social media. Applicants who have been involved in or complicit of censorship of American citizens on social media will be denied entry.
According to a cable sent by the State Department, evidence of such involvement can include an applicant's resume, employment history, social media profiles, public statements or writings, or any access to private data on US citizens. Diplomats are instructed to thoroughly review these details to ensure no participation in censorship activities.
The new rules reflect the administration's ongoing efforts to control the entry of foreigners into the country while ensuring that fans can attend major sporting events without undue delays.
In a move aimed at ensuring a successful experience for foreign fans attending major sporting events in the US, the Trump administration has instructed its diplomatic missions to prioritize visa applications from individuals planning to visit the country to watch soccer matches, attend the 2028 Olympics, or participate in other significant events.
According to a series of cables sent to all US embassies and consulates, applicants seeking "significant investments" in the US will be given top priority along with those wishing to travel for major sporting events that showcase American excellence. These events include the upcoming World Cup draw.
However, foreign nationals applying for "B1" or "B2" visas, which are typically granted for business or tourism purposes, may face longer wait times due to an increased demand for consular services. To mitigate this, the State Department has deployed over 400 additional consular officers worldwide to handle visa applications.
The administration has also introduced new guidelines for highly skilled foreign workers seeking H-1B visas, which are granted to individuals with specialized skills in areas such as technology and social media. Applicants who have been involved in or complicit of censorship of American citizens on social media will be denied entry.
According to a cable sent by the State Department, evidence of such involvement can include an applicant's resume, employment history, social media profiles, public statements or writings, or any access to private data on US citizens. Diplomats are instructed to thoroughly review these details to ensure no participation in censorship activities.
The new rules reflect the administration's ongoing efforts to control the entry of foreigners into the country while ensuring that fans can attend major sporting events without undue delays.