GREAT USA Coalition Calls for Visa Flexibility Ahead of 2026 World Cup

Washington, D.C. — The GREAT USA Coalition is urging the U.S. Department of State to create a targeted waiver to the Visa Bond Pilot Program for fans traveling to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, warning that current requirements could limit global participation in the tournament.

Under the expanded program, some B-1/B-2 visa applicants must post bonds between $5,000 and $15,000. While designed to reduce visa overstays, these costs create significant financial barriers for travelers from countries whose teams have qualified for the World Cup, including Algeria, Cabo Verde, Senegal, Côte d’Ivoire, and Tunisia, at a time when the U.S. has an opportunity to showcase openness and drive tourism and economic activity across host cities.

The Coalition is proposing a practical solution: waive bond requirements for travelers who can provide verified match tickets or official credentials, demonstrate strong ties to their home country, and pass standard security checks. This approach would maintain visa integrity while supporting a successful, globally inclusive World Cup.

The GREAT USA Coalition also expressed interest in working with the State Department to implement the policy ahead of the tournament.