According to News Today USA in Punjabi, ahead of next year’s Football World Cup, the U.S. government has announced an important policy change keeping foreign travelers in mind. The Trump administration has introduced a new system called the “FIFA Pass,” under which World Cup ticket holders will receive priority appointments for their visa interviews.
This move—reported widely by News Today USA in Punjabi—is being viewed as an attempt to balance strict immigration regulations with the expected surge in international visitors during the tournament. “PASS” stands for Priority Appointment Scheduling System.
During a meeting with U.S. President Donald Trump at the White House, FIFA President Gianni Infantino stated, “If you have a World Cup ticket, you will be given an earlier appointment for your visa.” Trump endorsed the decision and encouraged football fans across the globe to “apply for their visas immediately.”
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio explained that over 400 additional consular officers have been deployed due to rising demand. With this increase, applicants in nearly 80% of regions are expected to get an interview slot within 60 days.
As highlighted in News Today USA in Punjabi, FIFA ticket holders will be able to apply through a dedicated “FIFA Portal,” where their applications will be processed on a priority basis by the State Department. Rubio emphasized, “The screening and vetting process will remain exactly the same—the only difference is that these travelers will be moved ahead in the line.”
