From 2nd April, the United States is implementing a “visa bond pilot program.” Essentially, certain travelers will need to deposit an amount between $5,000 and $15,000 to obtain their visa. This bond will be refunded upon leaving the country on the scheduled date.
The measure now affects fifty countries, including five nations qualified for the 2026 World Cup: Algeria, Tunisia, Senegal, Cape Verde, and Ivory Coast. For adults, the bond could range from $10,000 to $15,000, compared to around $5,000 for minors.
Officially, American authorities justify this scheme as a means to combat illegal immigration and ensure visitors abide by their intended stay duration.
Supporters at the forefront, delegations uncertain
While this measure primarily targets visitors, it could also impact sports delegations. In practice, players, coaches, and staff members may be subject to this bond, individually refunded.
Faced with growing concerns, FIFA is reportedly working behind the scenes to negotiate exemptions. One option being considered is issuing official invitation letters for delegations to avoid this financial constraint. However, supporters are unlikely to benefit from such exemptions.
This situation could complicate the tournament organization for some teams. Several group stage matches for Ivory Coast, Senegal, and Tunisia are set to be held in the U.S., while Algeria and Cape Verde are expected to play all their matches there.
Outraged supporters: “It’s a global competition, everyone should be welcome”
The announcement of this measure quickly sparked controversy on social media. Many on TikTok criticize it as discriminatory, drawing parallels to the 1936 Olympics hosted by Nazi Germany.
Some are more radical, calling for a boycott of the sports competition.
A French content creator with 12,000 followers expressed their dismay at the situation, questioning the exclusion of Africans from the World Cup.
A broader tightening of immigration policy
Alongside the visa bond program, the U.S. also announced a freeze on permanent immigration visas for nationals of 75 countries, including those qualified for the competition like Iran, Iraq, Brazil, Bosnia, Uzbekistan, and Egypt. While supporters from these countries are said not to be directly affected, entry requests will undergo thorough scrutiny, including analysis of candidates’ social media activity before granting entry to U.S. soil.
