On December 16, 2025, the Trump administration announced an expansion of its travel restrictions, adding 20 countries and the Palestinian Authority to the list, effectively doubling the number of nations under U.S. travel and immigration limitations. Among the newly affected countries is Côte d’Ivoire (Ivory Coast), which now faces partial travel restrictions due to concerns over visa overstay rates and inadequate information-sharing practices.
These partial restrictions, set to take effect on January 1, 2026, specifically limit the issuance of certain visa categories, including B-1/B-2 (tourist and business), F (student), M (vocational student), and J (exchange visitor) visas. Consular officers are also directed to reduce the validity of other nonimmigrant visas for nationals of Côte d’Ivoire as permitted by law.
While the restrictions aim to address national security concerns, they pose potential challenges for Ivorian football fans planning to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches in the United States. Côte d’Ivoire is set to compete in Group E, with matches scheduled in U.S. venues.
The U.S. government has indicated that exceptions to the travel restrictions may apply for individuals whose entry is deemed in the national interest, including athletes, diplomats, and certain other categories. However, the process for obtaining such exemptions remains stringent, and affected individuals are advised to consult with U.S. consular services for guidance.
The expansion of travel restrictions has drawn criticism from legal and human rights groups, who argue that the policy disproportionately affects citizens based on nationality rather than addressing specific security threats. Advocacy organizations have called for a more nuanced approach that balances national security with individual rights and international engagement.
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, Ivorian fans and other affected individuals are encouraged to stay informed about the evolving travel policies and to seek official information from U.S. consular services to navigate the new restrictions effectively.
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