A red flag for the 2026 World Cup: Getting U.S. visas in time
Briefly

Shivanshu Vyas, a 32-year-old soccer fan, has been eagerly anticipating his chance to attend the World Cup in the U.S., driven by lifelong dedication to Manchester United. His emotional connection to sports was particularly highlighted when he saw his favorite team in Miami, where the atmosphere overwhelmed him. Vyas's excitement is underscored by the logistical challenge he now faces: obtaining a visa in time, which is complicated by lengthy immigration backlogs.
The U.S. visa system poses a significant barrier for global soccer fans planning to attend the upcoming World Cup. Current wait times are staggering, especially in countries with passionate soccer communities; for instance, Bogota's wait time is up to 677 days, which exceeds the remaining days before the tournament starts. The situation raises concerns not only among fans but also among U.S. lawmakers who are advocating for urgent reforms to the immigration process, emphasizing the importance of timely access for international visitors.
Read at www.npr.org
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