US prepares for influx of international visitors ahead of World Cup with security at the forefront

President Donald Trump discusses meeting with FIFA World Cup 2026 Task Force and vows to make the event an 'unprecedented success.'

The United States’ 250th-anniversary will coincide with the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will see the majority of matches take place in the U.S. beginning in June. President Donald Trump has played a significant role in the early preparations for the tournament, launching a White House task force to focus on all aspects of organizing the global event, with a central focus on security for U.S. citizens and international visitors.   

The president announced last month a new initiative aimed at allowing foreign visitors traveling to the U.S. to receive priority visa appointments. The "FIFA Pass," as the initiative is being called, is expected to launch early next year, but the State Department is already working to accommodate the influx of travelers. 

US President Donald Trump speaks as (L-R) the Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, FIFA president Gianni Infantino and Secretary of State Marco Rubio listen during a meeting with the White House Task Force on the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the Oval Office of the White House in Washington, DC on November 17, 2025. (BRENDAN SMIALOWSKI/AFP)

Matt Pierce, the acting principal deputy assistant secretary in the Bureau of Consular Affairs, spoke to Fox News Digital ahead of Friday’s draw in Washington, D.C., to discuss the visa process and the State Department’s focus on welcoming international visitors while also ensuring the Trump administration’s emphasis on national security.   

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"As the president has mentioned, this is going to be the best World Cup, the most successful World Cup in history. And