
Fans from Algeria, Senegal, and Three Other Nations Face $15,000 Deposit for 2026 World Cup US Entry
Fans from several nations participating in the FIFA World Cup are now required to deposit a significant sum as a guarantee to obtain a visa for entry into the United States, which will co-host the 2026 tournament alongside Canada and Mexico.
According to the English newspaper The Athletic, supporters from several nations participating in the World Cup will be asked to deposit up to $15,000 as a guarantee to secure a tourist visa for entry into the United States.
The same source clarified that the "Pilot Visa Bond Program" encompasses 50 countries, five of which have qualified for the World Cup. This program has been in effect for fans from Algeria, Cape Verde, Senegal, and Ivory Coast since January 21 of this year.
Last week, Tunisia was added to the list of World Cup participating nations, with the program set to commence for its fans starting April 2, as confirmed by the newspaper.
There is no provision within the Pilot Visa Bond Program that grants immunity to athletes participating in major sporting events like the World Cup. Meanwhile, FIFA is specifically pressuring the Trump administration to issue exceptions for players.