Nigerian football fans dreaming of watching the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States are facing fresh uncertainty following new immigration restrictions linked to the Donald Trump administration.

Reports indicate that the U.S. government is considering a broad suspension of visa processing for citizens of 75 countries, Nigeria included.

The proposal, revealed through a leaked memo and reported by the Daily Star, is part of a wider effort to block entry for people believed to be at risk of depending on public welfare in the United States.

Under the new policy direction, visa applicants considered likely to become a “public charge” could be denied entry. The measures reportedly extend to health-related assessments, with claims that foreigners classified as clinically obese may also face visa rejection. U.S. officials argue that such applicants could place additional strain on public resources.

Confirming the government’s position, U.S. State Department spokesperson Tommy Piggott said visa processing for affected countries would be paused while immigration procedures are reviewed.

He explained that the goal is to prevent individuals who may exploit public benefits from entering the country.

Only limited exceptions are expected under the new rules, and applicants will be subjected to stricter financial checks to prove they can support themselves during their stay.

U.S. authorities have justified the restrictions by citing concerns about unreliable civil documentation in many of the listed countries, including issues with birth records and criminal histories.

Security concerns were also raised for some nations, particularly those with a history of terrorism or weak government control.

The policy expansion follows a deadly shooting incident in Washington, D.C., in November 2025, which U.S. officials linked to an Afghan national. In the aftermath, Trump pledged to halt migration from certain countries until background screening systems were reassessed.

For football fans, the timing could not be worse. The high cost of World Cup tickets and travel had already limited attendance to wealthy supporters. Now, even fans who can afford the trip may be unable to secure visas.

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Although FIFA has assured fans that ticket holders should not face difficulties travelling to the tournament, U.S. immigration rules remain the final barrier.

The U.S. Embassy in Nigeria has outlined the visa requirements for World Cup visitors, including a valid passport, completion of the DS-160 form, payment of fees, and an interview in Abuja or Lagos.

Applicants must also demonstrate strong ties to Nigeria, clear plans to return home, and sufficient funds to cover their travel.

Despite meeting these conditions, Nigerians remain subject to Presidential Proclamation 10998, which restricts entry from 39 countries on security grounds.

The proclamation came into effect on January 1, 2026, with U.S. authorities citing weaknesses in screening and vetting systems.

Nigeria’s difficulties are compounded by the Super Eagles’ failure to qualify directly for the World Cup. Still, supporters from qualified African nations such as Senegal and Côte d’Ivoire are also affected by the restrictions.

Nigerians who already possess valid U.S. visas or hold dual citizenship with unaffected countries may still attend the tournament.

However, there are concerns that visas could be revoked if holders are flagged for activities on social media deemed unacceptable by U.S. immigration officials.

The impact of the restrictions goes beyond fans. Nigerian sports journalists, who traditionally cover World Cup tournaments, are also facing obstacles. Financial challenges have made sponsorship difficult, especially in a weak economic climate.

During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, only four of over 12 accredited Nigerian journalists were able to attend due to funding problems. With Nigeria absent from the tournament, sponsorship opportunities are even more limited.

There is, however, a slim possibility of change. If Nigeria succeeds in its protest against DR Congo over the alleged use of ineligible players, the Super Eagles could earn a place in the inter-confederation playoff scheduled for March in Mexico.