Rights Groups Issue Travel Advisory for 2026 World Cup Visitors to US

More than 120 organizations have issued a travel advisory for fans, players, journalists, and other visitors attending the 2026 World Cup in the United States. The advisory recommends exercising caution due to immigration policies under the Trump administration.

It states that these policies pose risks to human rights. The groups highlighted potential issues including denial of entry, risk of arrest, travel restrictions on citizens from certain countries, social media screening, racial profiling, and increased surveillance.

Travel bans affect nationals from Iran, Haiti, Senegal, and Ivory Coast, four countries participating in the tournament. The advisory suggests measures such as removing sensitive information from phones and keeping friends and family updated on travel plans.

The United States is co-hosting the 2026 World Cup with Canada and Mexico, with 78 of the 104 matches scheduled in the US. Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents will be part of the event's security. US officials have not commented on the advisory.

The coalition, which includes the American Civil Liberties Union, called on Fifa to pressure US authorities to respect human rights for all attendees. The groups criticized Fifa for not providing concrete guarantees on safety. In December 2025, Fifa president Gianni Infantino awarded President Trump with Fifa's inaugural Peace Prize.

stated it is committed to respecting all internationally recognized human rights and strives to promote their protection. It cited documents and advisory groups set up to address human rights issues related to the tournament. Earlier this year, Football Supporters Europe expressed concerns to BBC Sport about the militarization of police forces in the US.

Last month, a report from Amnesty stated that the World Cup could involve repression and authoritarian practices. The White House's World Cup Task Force responded that the tournament will be the largest, safest, and most welcoming sporting event in history.

It stated that it is working to deliver an event highlighting hospitality, security, and excellence. The task force added that fans can expect a smooth, secure, and unforgettable tournament. Immigration enforcement has been a focus of the Trump administration, with Immigration and Customs Enforcement receiving expanded scope and budget.

The agency has faced criticism following the fatal shooting of two US citizens during protests against immigration policies.