The FIFA World Cup will be here before we know it, but for some fans, gaining entry to the US to watch the games could prove tricky...
The biggest sporting event on the planet will be held in Canada, Mexico, and the USA this summer.
While fans from around the world usually flock in their hundreds of thousands to the tournaments, this year might be a little different due to Visa bans.
15 World Cup Teams Affected by the Visa Ban
Among the 15 countries impacted by this measure is Brazil, the country with the most World Cup wins in history, per LBC.
Brazil also clinched the title during the 1994 World Cup, which was held on American soil. The current ban could make it harder for Brazilian supporters and officials to attend the event this year.
Scotland, which is making its first appearance in a World Cup finals since 1998, is facing a similar situation.
All three of Scotland’s group opponents - Brazil, Morocco, and Haiti - are on the list of affected countries. If the visa ban remains in place, it could potentially limit the number of fans and officials traveling to the US to support their teams during the tournament.
The Reason Behind the Visa Restrictions
According to the memo, the visa restrictions are part of a temporary move by the Trump administration to strengthen its vetting procedures for applicants.
The policy aims to prevent individuals who might rely on public benefits or welfare programs from entering the country.
As part of the vetting process, US officials will consider several factors, including an applicant’s health, age, and proficiency in English.
"The State Department will use its long-standing authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge on the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people," said State Department spokesperson Tommy Piggott.
He added: "Immigration from these 75 countries will be paused while the State Department reassesses immigration processing procedures to prevent the entry of foreign nationals who would take welfare and public benefits."
Affected Countries: A Full List
The visa ban is likely to have a major impact on World Cup logistics, especially if the restrictions persist throughout the tournament.
Aside from Brazil, Morocco, and Haiti, the policy affects several other footballing nations. These include:
- Algeria
- Cape Verde
- Colombia
- Cote d'Ivoire
- Egypt
- Ghana
- Iran
- Jordan
- Senegal
- Tunisia
- Uruguay
- Uzbekistan
Potential Impact on World Cup Attendance
If the ban remains in place, the absence of fans from these 75 countries could create a noticeable void in the stadiums, with fewer supporters attending matches to cheer on their teams.
This could alter the atmosphere of the tournament and affect the overall fan experience.
The timing of this visa freeze is also notable, as it coincides with rising tensions between the US and Iran, another country that will participate in the World Cup.
The Trump administration is reportedly weighing options to strike Iran following its violent crackdown on protests by the Islamic regime.