Full list of countries whose citizens are seeking asylum in Canada after World Cup

Citizens from about 12 countries are seeking asylum in Canada following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the country co-hosted.

Data released by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) shows that the applications form part of 175 asylum claims filed by foreign nationals who entered Canada after receiving temporary residence approval linked to the global football tournament, jointly hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico.

IRCC stated that a total of 26,111 people were granted temporary residence after indicating they were traveling to Canada in connection with the World Cup.

Canadian immigration authorities explained that the figures only include applicants who specifically listed “FIFA World Cup 26” as the purpose of their temporary residence applications.

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The Canadian government is yet to officially communicate its decision on whether the requests will be granted or denied, which would result in applicants returning to their home countries.

Meanwhile, the Government of Ghana has not yet responded to the report as the application processes continue.

With Ghana and China topping the list, citizens from other countries such as Colombia, Nigeria, Ecuador, Nepal, and Burundi are also represented.

Full List of Asylum Applications by Country:

Ghana – 25

China – 25

Egypt – 15

Colombia – 15

Kenya – 15

Senegal – 10

Bangladesh – 10

Nigeria – 10

Ecuador – 5

Burundi – 5

Nepal – 5

Pakistan – 5

SB/JKB

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