The five nations affected are Algeria, Cape Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, Senegal and Tunisia
A policy introduced under Donald Trump could require fans from African countries to pay bonds of up to $15,000 to enter the US for the World Cup.
The scheme applies to visitors entering on B-1 or B-2 visas and works as a refundable security deposit, returned after travellers leave the country in accordance with visa conditions. The policy was first introduced as a pilot programme in late 2025 but has now been expanded to potentially cover visitors from 50 countries.
The five nations affected are Algeria, Cape Verde, Cote d’Ivoire, Senegal and Tunisia, who will be watching their teams play in the World Cup in the summer.
The bond requirement, ranging from $5,000 to $15,000, could make travel difficult for many supporters, particularly given that average annual incomes in these countries are around or below $5,000.
Tournament logistics mean not all matches for these teams will take place in the United States. Tunisia are scheduled to play one group-stage game in the US, while Senegal and Cote d’Ivoire will each play two. Algeria and Cape Verde are set to play all their group-stage fixtures in Mexico.
Even for those able to afford the deposits, the policy adds to other existing challenges facing travelling fans, including high ticket and accommodation costs. There are also concerns about delays in processing visa and increased enforcement of immigration policies in the US.
