By Abigail David
The United States government has warned foreign social media influencers and content creators that they could face deportation if they earn income while in the country on a tourist visa during the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
In a statement to Spanish news agency EFE, the U.S. Customs and Border Protection and the Department of Homeland Security said creating monetised content while visiting under a tourist programme constitutes work and requires the appropriate visa.
According to the agencies, the B-2 tourist visa permits travel for leisure, family visits and medical treatment but does not authorise paid employment or income-generating activities carried out in the United States.
The warning applies to creators who monetise content on platforms such as YouTube, TikTok, Instagram and Facebook. Authorities also noted that working for a media organisation while on a tourist visa is prohibited.
Officials cautioned that violations could lead to visa cancellation, deportation and restrictions on future travel to the US.
Immigration lawyer Alex Galvez said individuals who breach the conditions of their entry could lose their tourist visas, although some cases may be legally contested if payments are received outside the United States.
The advisory comes ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico and Canada and is expected to attract thousands of independent content creators.
The warning follows heightened immigration enforcement measures, including the detention and self-deportation of popular TikTok creator Khaby Lame in 2025 over an alleged visa overstay.
