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In the Oval Office, former President Donald Trump assured reporters that U.S. government agencies had diligently worked to streamline the vetting process for international soccer fans planning to visit for the World Cup next summer.
Trump emphasized that his administration had significantly reduced visa processing times for most nations. He noted that this effort would allow soccer enthusiasts to access the United States more easily. According to Trump, the World Cup could potentially inject US$30 billion into the economy and create 200,000 jobs.
Trump proudly announced that visa wait times had been reduced to 60 days or less for most applicants, a move aimed at enhancing the experience for World Cup attendees.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino added a key detail, stating, “If you have a ticket for the World Cup, you will receive a prioritized appointment to secure your visa.”
“It doesn’t guarantee admission to the US. It guarantees you an expedited appointment. You’re still going to go through the same vetting.”
Marco Rubio warned a World Cup ticket “doesn’t guarantee admission” to the Untied States. Source: AAP / Sipa USA / Will Oliver
Rubio said ticket holders would get an interview within six to eight weeks under the plan, but urged people to act now.
Trump has raised the possibility of moving games from certain host cities amid a crackdown on what he says is crime and migration in some Democratic-run cities.