Rubio Explores 'Double Shifts' and AI to Clear World Cup Visa Backlog

Key Points

• U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio outlined plans to address visa processing delays ahead of the FIFA World Cup, including double shifts and using AI.
• A bipartisan group of lawmakers is pressuring the State Department to resolve visa backlogs that threaten tourism revenue for major events.
• Long visa appointment wait times persist in at least six countries, potentially impacting attendance at the World Cup and future international events.

Summary

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that the State Department is exploring double shifts, reassignment of foreign service officers, and the use of artificial intelligence to speed up visa processing before next summer's FIFA World Cup. These measures are in response to concerns from Congress about visa backlogs that could jeopardize billions in tourism revenue tied to major sporting events like the World Cup and the 2028 Olympics. Lawmakers are urging the department to increase visa appointment availability and consider waivers to ensure the smooth entry of spectators, athletes, and media.