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US visitor visa processing times have risen to 600 days for some countries, affecting FIFA World Cup 2026 attendance.
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Indian travelers face waits of up to 404 days for a visa interview, potentially missing the tournament.
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The US State Department assures there’s still time to apply, but experts warn delays may spoil plans.
Soccer fans from India and other countries may miss the 2026 FIFA World Cup due to lengthy US visitor visa processing times. The US Travel Association warns that delays of up to 600 days could prevent fans from attending the tournament.
Indian travelers face significant waits, with average processing times reaching 404 days. This means that even if fans apply now, they may not receive their visas in time for the World Cup, scheduled from June to July 2026.
The US State Department, however, downplays concerns, stating that there’s still ample time for fans to apply. The department regularly assesses capacity and wait times in countries participating in the tournament.
Experts urge fans to apply for visas immediately to avoid disappointment. With over 30 million valid US tourist visas already held, existing visa holders will not face issues attending the event. FIFA is working with governments to ensure smooth visa processing for those who need it.
