Next year is set to be big for football fans across the world, as the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off.
But thousands of fans could be in for a nasty surprise if they plan to travel to the US for the events.
Travel experts have warned that that thousands of football fans from the UK and Europe could be refused entry to the United States.
This is a result of tightening visa checks, social media screening, and renewed border policies under Donald Trump‘s presidency.
According to Jessie Chambers from working holiday provider Global Work & Travel, the US is already seeing increased scrutiny for international visitors.
This could wreck havoc for football fans travelling to matches in New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and other destinations.
‘We’re already seeing people being refused entry for things as small as old tweets, minor criminal records, or incorrect ESTA answers,’ says Jessie.
She adds: ‘With Trump’s administration reinstating stricter entry rules, fans need to treat this World Cup as a high-risk travel event – not a holiday you can book last minute.’
Next year is set to be big for football fans across the world, as the FIFA World Cup 2026 kicks off
But thousands of fans could be in for a nasty surprise if they plan to travel to the US for the events
From 2025, US border agents can review social media activity linked to a traveller’s visa application.
Jessie warns: ‘Offensive posts, political content, or even jokes about security or drugs can raise red flags.
‘It’s not about censorship – it’s about perception. The US wants to know exactly who’s entering during such a major global event.’
What’s more, historic minor offences such as disorderly conduct or driving bans could lead to visa issues under US ‘moral character’ clauses.
Travellers are urged to apply for B-1/B-2 visas early if they’ve ever been arrested or charged, as an ESTA (United States Visa Application) may be automatically denied.
The new Trump administration has promised ‘zero tolerance’ on visa overstays and background mismatches. Border officials now have more power to question and refuse travellers -even if their visa is technically valid.
With over 400-day wait times for visa interviews in some European embassies, fans from Spain, France, and other countries could see delays if they don’t apply early enough – and could even risk missing matches as a result.
Visitors from certain countries or those with dual nationality links to countries under US travel restrictions may need additional waivers, which can take months to process.
Travel experts have warned that that thousands of football fans from the UK and Europe could be refused entry to the United States
Global Work & Travel has seen a spike in visa support queries since the World Cup host cities were confirmed.
Jessie adds: ‘We’re telling fans to treat visa prep like match prep – the earlier you start, the less likely you’ll get caught offside by the rules. Some people think the ESTA is guaranteed, but even one wrong tick box can see you turned back at the gate.’
The US Travel Association has warned visa backlogs and tough screening could cause financial loss in expected tourism income if fans from Europe and South America are deterred.
Jessie adds: ‘It’s not just about the match tickets — it’s about the welcome. For many football fans, this will be their first trip to America. They deserve clarity, not confusion.’
