The United States has legal protections covering discrimination, religious freedom and civil rights. This section highlights some of the key issues visitors may wish to consider before travelling.

Anti-Discrimination and Hate Crime Protections

Federal anti-discrimination laws provide protections in areas including employment, housing and access to public spaces and services.

Federal and state hate crime laws also exist across the United States, although reporting systems and enforcement can differ. Underreporting remains a recognised issue, particularly affecting people of colour, LGBTQ+ communities, migrant communities and religious minorities.

Visitors who experience discrimination, harassment or hate-motivated incidents may be able to access support through civil rights organisations, community groups, legal services or local reporting mechanisms.

Immigration Enforcement and Interactions with Authorities

Immigration enforcement is carried out through federal agencies including Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) and Customs and Border Protection (CBP).

Visitors should carry identification and travel documentation when travelling, attending matches or interacting with authorities.

Police and security presence is likely to be visible around stadiums, transport hubs and major public events during the tournament. If approached by police or immigration authorities, visitors should remain calm, follow lawful instructions and request legal representation or contact their embassy or consulate if detained or questioned.

Public demonstrations and political gatherings may take place during the tournament. Visitors should monitor local information and avoid situations that feel unsafe or escalating.

Gender Identity, Reproductive Rights and Women's Safety

Legal protections, healthcare access and public attitudes relating to gender identity and reproductive rights continue to be the subject of political debate across the United States.

Transgender and non-binary visitors may wish to review practical considerations before travelling, particularly around identification documents, airport security procedures and healthcare access. Visibility does not always guarantee safety or inclusion.

Women and girls experience high levels of sexual harassment, stalking, intimate partner violence and sexual assault across the country, including in public spaces, nightlife environments and online.

Visitors should take practical precautions, particularly when travelling alone at night, using unfamiliar transport systems or attending crowded fan zones and nightlife areas.

Sexual assault crisis centres, domestic violence organisations and victim support services operate throughout the United States.

In an emergency, call 911.

Mental Health and Support Services

Emergency Departments are required to stabilise patients regardless of their insurance status, but patients will still be billed for treatment.

For non-emergency medical issues, visitors are generally advised to use local urgent care centres or walk-in clinics where available.

The national 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline provides free and confidential support by phone, text and chat.

Additional support services may include:

• LGBTQ+ crisis organisations

• domestic violence services

• migrant support organisations

• community health clinics

• faith-based support networks