An official from the United States has commented following the country’s announcement of a significant visa ban in the lead-up to the World Cup.
The World Cup is a globally renowned sporting event, eagerly anticipated for its showcase of international soccer talent.
Soccer is a sport played in nearly every part of the world, and watching nations vie for victory on a global stage is an exhilarating experience.
For many fans, attending a World Cup match is a lifelong dream. However, recent developments have disrupted the travel plans of numerous supporters.
Earlier this week, President Donald Trump declared an indefinite suspension of immigrant visas for 75 countries.
This decision comes just months before the tournament, which will take place in the US, Canada, and Mexico.
The Department of Homeland Security announced on January 14 via Twitter: “The State Department will pause immigrant visa processing from 75 countries whose migrants take welfare from the American people at unacceptable rates. The freeze will remain active until the U.S. can ensure that new immigrants will not extract wealth from the American people.”
The countries affected by this suspension include Brazil, Colombia, Ghana, and Morocco, all of which have qualified for the tournament.
This decision has sparked concern and uncertainty among those planning to travel to the US to enjoy the World Cup festivities.
Fortunately, the ban does not affect non-immigrant visas, such as temporary tourist or business visas. Despite this, some individuals feel deterred by the ban and sense an unwelcoming atmosphere.
The United States has now provided further clarification on the situation.
In a conversation with the Mirror, a US State Department spokesperson assured that the visa suspension won’t hinder those wishing to visit the country for the World Cup.
The official stated that the “ban applies to the issuance of immigrant visas only, and does not apply to nonimmigrant visas, such as those for tourists, athletes and their families, and media professionals intending to travel for the World Cup.”
FIFA has also released a statement reinforcing this clarification.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino remarked: “America welcomes the World. We have always said that this will be the greatest and most inclusive FIFA World Cup in history – and the FIFA PASS service is a very concrete example of that.”
In addition to the continued availability of non-immigrant visas, FIFA has introduced the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS).
Fans holding a valid World Cup ticket can apply for a FIFA PASS, allowing them to secure priority visa interview appointments in advance of the tournament.