Iran’s national football team has officially been granted visas to enter the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, ending weeks of uncertainty over whether the squad would be allowed to participate in matches hosted on American soil.
The decision comes just days before Iran’s opening Group G fixture against New Zealand in Los Angeles.
The visa issue had become a major talking point due to the tense political relationship between the United States and Iran.
Iran had already moved its World Cup base camp from Arizona to Tijuana, Mexico, after concerns over visas and security.
Despite the relocation, all three of Iran’s group-stage matches remain scheduled to take place in the United States.
According to U.S. officials, visas were approved for the players, coaching staff, trainers and essential support personnel, although some administrative officials were still awaiting clearance.
The visas were processed through the U.S. Embassy in Ankara, Turkey.
For FIFA, the decision ensures that one of Asia’s strongest football nations will take its place at the tournament. Iran will face:
New Zealand – June 15 (Los Angeles)
Belgium – June 21 (Los Angeles)
Egypt – June 26 (Seattle)
The development removes a significant obstacle ahead of the World Cup and allows attention to return to football rather than politics.
With visas now secured, Iran can focus fully on preparing for what promises to be a challenging group stage.