US to add consular staff for World Cup visas

 The US State Department will increase staffing at embassies and consulates to handle a surge in visa applications ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, AP reported Thursday citing direct sources. Officials said they will "send hundreds of additional consular officers to 'designated countries' to handle the demand for visa interviews," though the specific countries are not yet confirmed.

The department emphasized it "is prepared to meet the demand while maintaining rigorous vetting requirements," noting that in most countries interview appointments can be scheduled within two months.

Fans from nations in the Visa Waiver Program, including most of Europe, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and others, will generally not require interviews. Supporters from outside the program must apply in person. However, questions remain over how the US will manage the expanded staffing plan amid the government shutdown that began on Wednesday.

https://breakingthenews.net/Article/US-to-add-consular-staff-for-World-Cup-visas/64919110