US Stepping Up Visa Processing, Preparations For 2026 FIFA World Cup 

By Voon Miaw Ping and Nur Atiq Maisarah Suhaimi

KUALA LUMPUR, June 6 (Bernama) -- The United States (US) has stepped up visa processing and extensive preparations as it gears up to welcome millions of international football fans to the FIFA World Cup 2026.

With the mega tournament kicking off in just a few days, Chargé d’Affaires at the US Embassy in Malaysia David H. Gamble Jr said the US government is making every effort to ensure that the event is safe, successful, and delivers a seamless experience for fans, families, and athletes throughout their visit.

He said the federal government has allocated more than US$1.23 billion in funding to states and host cities across the country to support law enforcement, security operations, public transportation, and counter-unmanned aircraft systems.

“Preparations for the tournament have been underway for more than a year, with safety and security remaining the top priorities of the White House Task Force on the FIFA World Cup 2026.

“President Trump has emphasised that the FIFA World Cup 2026 is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to showcase the beauty and greatness of America and we are excited to welcome football fans from around the world,” he said in a written reply to Bernama.

The FIFA World Cup 2026, the biggest edition to date, will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the US. The tournament features 48 teams competing in 104 matches, across 16 host cities from June 11 to July 19, an increase from 32 teams and 64 matches in the 2022 edition.

“The World Cup also showcases the joint efforts of the United States, Canada, and Mexico to ensure the safety and success of the event," he said.

Gamble described the event as the largest and most complex sporting event in world history in both footprint and size, noting that US will host 78 matches across 11 cities throughout the 39-day tournament and accommodate 39 team base camps.

The US is expected to welcome five to seven million international visitors to the event, he said, adding that as such, safety and security is paramount.

“Federal, state and local law enforcement agencies are collaborating on comprehensive security plans, planning for a wide range of potential scenarios, including weather emergencies, cyberattacks, and other malicious acts.  

“We are closely monitoring global events and any potential impacts to the FIFA World Cup and will adapt our security posture as needed to address emerging threats and ensure the utmost safety for the entire duration of the tournament,” he said.

To support visa applications and processing for international fans, Gamble said the US Department of State has deployed more than 650 consular staff to process visa applications related to the World Cup, while maintaining the same rigorous security standards.

“We have also reduced wait times around the world. Since 2025, applicants in more than 80 per cent of countries worldwide have been able to schedule a visa interview in less than two months.

“In many cases, including in Kuala Lumpur, it is (the wait times) much less,” he added.

For Malaysian applicants, Gamble said they can typically secure their visa appointments the same week, provided they meet the visa requirements and demonstrated that they qualify for a US visa. 

He also advised fans who are planning to travel to the US and need a visa to apply now in their country of nationality or residence, adding that further information is available on FIFA World Cup 26 Visas Pass FAQ page on the United States Department of State’s official website.

Gamble said this historic tournament coincides with America's 250th anniversary, offering a unique opportunity to showcase the nation’s pride, world-class hospitality, and history while promoting economic growth and tourism through sport.  

“Between now and 2034, the United States is hosting at least 10 other major international sporting events, including the 2028 Summer Olympic and Paralympic Games in Los Angeles.

“We hope that what we do today to ensure a safe and successful FIFA World Cup will lead to the same success for future mega sporting events, during the Decade of Sport in America,” he added.

FIFA World Cup 2026 will kick off at the Mexico City Stadium in Mexico with Mexico playing against South Africa, while the final will be held at the MetLife Stadium New Jersey, the US on July 19.

-- BERNAMA