The US government officially announced the commencement of the visa application procedure, allowing Kenyans who intend to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup to start the visa application process.
The US Department of State announced Tuesday night that visa applications from fans hoping to visit the tournament are now being received and processed by embassies and consulates worldwide.
“Foreign travellers planning to attend a 2026 World Cup match in the United States who need a US visa should apply now. Our embassies and consulates are working diligently to ensure an efficient, smooth, and effective visa process that protects America’s security,” the State Department wrote in a statement.
The 2026 World Cup will be the biggest and most extensive competition in FIFA history, with 104 matches spread over 16 locations in three host nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
This occurs at a time when the United States has been continuously altering its visa application procedures in an effort to filter out illegal immigrants.
The Trump administration declared in August that the majority of non-immigrant visa applicants, including those who are younger than 14 or older than 79, will still have to appear in person for an interview under the new rules.
The announcement also follows FIFA President Gianni Infantino’s assurance to Kenyan supporters that U.S. travel restrictions under President Donald Trump’s administration would not impact tournament access at their meeting with President William Ruto at the State House in Nairobi a few days prior.
