'A World Cup for them not us': Fans' anger at US travel bans and visa restrictions
Summary
Many football fans from countries competing in the World Cup held in the US are unable to attend because of strict visa rules and travel bans. These rules affect fans from over a quarter of the participating countries, causing frustration and disappointment.Key Facts
- Iraqi fan Abdulla Adnan bought tickets for World Cup matches in the US but cannot get a visa due to suspended US consular services in Iraq.
- Adnan traveled to Jordan to apply for a visa but was denied because he is not a Jordanian citizen, and applying in Turkey would take too long.
- Travel bans and tougher visa rules affect fans from countries like Haiti, Iran, Senegal, and Ivory Coast due to President Trump’s immigration policies.
- No European countries face similar visa restrictions for the World Cup.
- Forty-two wealthy countries have visa waiver access to the US, but no African countries do.
- The recommended visa for World Cup fans costs $185 and requires an in-person interview.
- Fan groups from affected countries have decided not to send supporters to the World Cup because of these restrictions.
- US authorities say the strict visa system is necessary to manage large numbers of visitors safely.
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