The State Department announced Wednesday that foreign supporters from 50 countries will no longer have to post a $15,000 visa bond if they hold valid World Cup tickets. The waiver applies to fans travelling to the United States for the tournament co‑hosted with Canada and Mexico. Assistant Secretary Mora Namdar confirmed the change officially in a statement to the BBC.

The bond, introduced last year to curb overstays, formed part of a 12‑month pilot aimed at tightening immigration controls. Players and coaches were already exempt, but ordinary ticket‑holders were left out until now. Five qualified nations – Algeria, Cabo Verde, Ivory Coast, Senegal and Tunisia – benefit, while travelers from Iran and Haiti remain barred, and Ivory Coast and Senegal still face limited bans today.

FIFA praised the decision, saying it reflects ongoing cooperation with the White House to deliver a “record‑breaking” event. Rights groups, however, warn that parallel policies – such as a five‑year social‑media history requirement – could still expose fans to denial or heightened scrutiny. With the bond lifted, ticket‑holding supporters can now enter the U.S. without additional financial hurdles.