US Expands Visa Ban Exemptions for Athletes at Major Sporting Events

The US government has expanded visa ban exemptions to allow athletes, coaches, and officials participating in major sporting events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Olympics, Paralympics, and Special Olympics to enter the country despite ongoing travel restrictions affecting citizens from 39 countries and the Palestinian Authority. However, spectators, media personnel, and corporate sponsors attending these events remain subject to the visa bans unless they qualify for separate exemptions. This move aims to balance immigration controls with facilitating international sports participation.