Iran's football federation is urging the United States to provide multiple-entry visas for its World Cup squad, following FIFA's decision to move the team's base camp from the US to Mexico. This request comes just weeks before the tournament begins, with the Iranian team set to kick off their campaign on June 15 against New Zealand in Los Angeles.

Visa Requirements for the World Cup

FFIRI president Mehdi Taj expressed his expectations for the US to issue the necessary visas for the players and support staff. "The US should give all players multiple-entry visas as they would have to leave and re-enter the US many times," Taj stated during a press conference in Mashhad, northeastern Iran. Currently, the Iranian squad has not yet received their US visas, although several members attended visa appointments in Turkiye last week while training there.

Relocation of Base Camp

Originally, Iran had chosen a sports complex in Tucson, Arizona, as their training base for the World Cup. However, they later requested a change, leading FIFA to confirm the new location at Centro Xoloitzcuintle in Tijuana, Mexico. This site is strategically positioned near the US-Mexico border, which Taj believes could facilitate the visa process for the team when they need to enter the US for their matches.

In addition to applying for US visas, the entire squad has also submitted applications for Canadian visas, anticipating a potential progression to the knockout stages of the tournament, which includes matches in Canada. As tensions continue in the region due to ongoing conflicts, the Iranian team remains focused on their upcoming World Cup fixtures.