World Cup Tickets Do Not Guarantee US Visa Approval, Rubio Says

The U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has declared that tickets for the 2026 World Cup do not guarantee automatic visa issuance for entering the country. According to him, a ticket can only expedite the scheduling of a visa interview at the consulate, but all applicants will undergo the same vetting process as other foreign nationals entering the U.S.

"The only difference is that you will be placed at the front of the line," stated Rubio, urging fans to apply for their visas as soon as possible. He added that interviews are typically scheduled "6-8 weeks" after application submission and cautioned against waiting until the last moment.

The meeting, led by U.S. President Donald Trump, reassured that consular services will prioritize fans traveling to the tournament. Trump noted that the waiting time for visa approval has been reduced to 60 days or less in recent years, emphasizing the administrative improvements of the administration.

He also mentioned that the World Cup could bring more than $30 billion in revenue to the U.S. Meanwhile, Trump hinted at the possibility of relocating matches from cities that, in his view, are not taking adequate measures for security. He cited Seattle as an example, assuring that such a decision would not provoke objections from FIFA.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino, present at the event, emphasized that security is a priority.

The 2026 World Cup will take place in the U.S., Canada, and Mexico from June 11 to July 19. The Russian national team has been banned from international competitions since February 2022.