As the 2026 FIFA World Cup across North America nears, travel experts are warning that thousands of football fans could be refused entry to the United States next summer due to tightening visa checks, social media screening, and renewed border policies in the U.S.
Jessie Chambers from working holiday provider Global Work & Travel points out that the U.S. is already seeing increased scrutiny for international visitors – a situation that could spell trouble for football fans travelling to matches in New York, Miami, Los Angeles, and other American World Cup cities. (Canada and Mexico will also host games).
“We’re already seeing people being refused entry for things as small as old tweets, minor criminal records, or incorrect ESTA answers,” says Chambers. “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.”
Why fans could be turned away
Social media screening is now routine: Since 2025, U.S. border agents can review social media activity linked to a traveller’s visa application. “Offensive posts, political content, or even jokes about security or drugs can raise red flags,” Chambers warns. “It’s not about censorship – it’s about perception. The U.S. wants to know exactly who’s entering during such a major global event.”
Old criminal records or cautions can trigger refusals: Even historic, minor offences (like disorderly conduct or driving bans) can cause visa issues under U.S. “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 may be automatically denied.
Tightened border control: The new 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.
Visa delays could derail trips entirely: With over 400-day wait times for visa interviews in some European embassies, fans from Spain, France, and beyond could miss the start of the tournament if they don’t apply early.
“Inadmissible” nations face extra scrutiny: Citizens of certain nations – or those with dual nationality links to countries under U.S. travel restrictions – may need additional waivers, which can take months to process.
Fans advised to ‘start now, not next year’: Global Work & Travel has seen a spike in visa support queries since the World Cup host cities were confirmed. Chambers says: “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.”
Top tips for fans travelling to the 2026 World Cup
- Apply now – if you need a U.S. visa, start the process as soon as possible.
- Clean your digital footprint – delete or lock down social media posts that could be seen as controversial.
- Check your criminal record – even if your conviction is spent, it may still count in U.S. immigration checks.
- Avoid “backdoor” routes – travelling via Canada or Mexico won’t guarantee U.S. entry.
- Get proof of ties to home – evidence of job, home, or return flights helps prove you won’t overstay.
Global Work & Travel is a leading global work and travel brands with headquarters in Australia and offices across the UK and Canada.
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