By Kazeem Ajibola Shoyebo
A sweeping U.S. State Department decision to suspend immigrant visa processing for nationals of 75 countries has raised questions about how the policy could affect African teams and their supporters heading to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, set to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico next summer.
Trump administration visa policy:
On January 14, 2026, the U.S. State Department announced a pause in immigrant visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, including several African nations, beginning January 21. The move, part of a broader administration effort to restrict immigration deemed likely to result in “public charge” claims on U.S. welfare programs, will halt decisions on permanent residency (green card) applications while procedures are reassessed.
State Department officials said the measure is intended to ensure that new immigrants “will not extract wealth from the American people,” emphasizing a broader “America First” immigration agenda.
The pause does not affect non-immigrant visas — such as tourist, business or temporary travel visas — which remain available and are expected to be used by most World Cup visitors.
*African Teams Qualified for 2026 FIFA World Cup*
Several African national teams have already booked their places in the expanded 48-team tournament, showcasing the continent’s rising football profile. The teams are
Egypt, Tunisia, Senegal,
Côte d’Ivoire, Ghana,
Algeria, Cape Verde,
South Africa and Morocco.
In addition, DR Congo remains in contention for a World Cup place if they advance through inter-continental playoffs after finishing among the top runners-up in CAF qualification.
These teams are part of a broader African contingent expected to compete in North America next summer.
*Visa Policy and the World Cup:*
What Fans Need to Know
1. Non-Immigrant Visas Still Available
Officials have clarified that visitor visas (e.g., tourist or fan travel visas) are not part of the immigrant visa pause. Fans and delegations from affected countries should still be able to apply for and receive non-immigrant visas to attend the tournament.
2. Immigrant Visa Pause Only Affects Permanent Residency
The suspension applies specifically to immigrant visas often sought for U.S. residency — not short-term travel. Soccer supporters planning to visit the U.S. for the World Cup are typically eligible for B-class visitor visas, which should continue to be processed normally.
3. Expanded Screening May Still Affect Some Applicants.
Although non-immigrant visas are not paused, the broader policy context includes tighter vetting and public charge scrutiny, which may affect some temporary entrants. Consular officials may require additional documentation on financial stability and ties to the applicant’s home country.