The U.S. Consulate in Medellín is experiencing an unprecedented surge in visa applications from Colombians who want to travel to the United States to watch their national team at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tournament, co-hosted by the USA, Canada, and Mexico, runs June 11 to July 19, 2026 — and Colombia is in it for the first time since 2018.
Unlike many other qualified nations, Colombia does not have visa-free travel to the United States. Every Colombian fan who wants to attend a game in person needs a valid B-1/B-2 tourist visa — and those visas are in intense demand right now at both the U.S. Embassy in Bogotá and the U.S. Consulate in Medellín.
The U.S. State Department has a dedicated resource at state.gov/fifa-world-cup-26-visas with specific guidance for World Cup visitors. To apply, Colombians need: a DS-160 application form, valid passport, financial documentation (bank statements, employment letter), proof of accommodation in the US, and return travel documentation.
If you're a Colombian national or know Colombian friends and family who want to attend: apply immediately. Current processing times at the Medellín consulate are reported at 6–10 weeks for initial interview appointments. By the time the World Cup begins in June, there may be limited appointment availability remaining.
Colombia's World Cup qualification — finishing 2nd in CONMEBOL qualifying after missing out entirely in 2022 — has generated enormous national excitement. The national team began its final preparation camp in Medellín before the May 29 farewell match at El Campín in Bogotá and subsequent pre-tournament friendlies in the US.
For expats and tourists in Medellín during the World Cup (June–July 2026): expect watch parties across the city, packed sports bars during Colombia matches, and general national electricity when results go Colombia's way. The atmosphere is remarkable — Colombia's passion for football is one of the authentic cultural experiences the city offers.
The Colombian Football Federation released an initial 55-player squad in May 2026, with the final 26-man roster to be confirmed ahead of the tournament. Colombia is in Group K and will play three group stage games in the United States. If they advance — and expectations are high after their runner-up finish at the 2024 Copa América — the party in Medellín will be extraordinary.