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Witnesses tell Homeland Security panel U.S. must modernize visa processing, TSA technology and staffing before 2026 World Cup
Summary
Industry and trade witnesses told the House Homeland Security subcommittee that long visa waits, aging screening technology, and diverted passenger security fees threaten the U.S. ability to handle millions of international visitors for the 2026 World Cup and other upcoming events.
Chairman Jimenez opened a House Homeland Security Subcommittee hearing saying the panel would “assess the current state of US travel security and infrastructure,” and witnesses told members the country must move quickly to upgrade visa processing, airport screening and customs before the 2026 FIFA World Cup and other major events.
Jeff Freeman, president and CEO of the U.S. Travel Association, said the travel industry is a major economic engine and warned that long visa waits and outdated airport technology are deterring visitors. “Travel is a vital economic engine, contributing nearly $3,000,000,000,000 annually and supporting more than 15,000,000 jobs,” Freeman said. He told the committee the U.S. finished seventeenth out of 18 peer…
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