International Attendees Reconsider Participation in 2026 GDC Amid Safety and Immigration Concerns
The upcoming 2026 Game Developers Conference (GDC), now rebranded as the GDC Festival of Gaming, is scheduled to take place in San Francisco from March 9 to 13. However, a growing number of international participants are expressing reservations about attending, citing safety concerns and the intensified presence of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE).
Discussions on professional platforms like LinkedIn reveal that many developers and industry professionals are opting out of this year’s event. The primary reasons include apprehensions about personal safety, stricter U.S. immigration policies, and an increased ICE presence in various cities.
Recent incidents have heightened these concerns. In Minneapolis, two fatal shootings involving ICE agents occurred: Renee Nicole Good was killed on January 7, and ICU nurse Alex Pretti lost his life on January 24. Such events have led potential attendees to question the safety of traveling to the U.S. for the conference.
One industry professional remarked, It’s not worth taking the risk of going. Another added, The U.S. is just a very problematic location for an international event.
Beyond safety, financial considerations are also influencing decisions. Independent developers and small studios find the cumulative costs—covering accommodation, meals, travel, and conference fees—prohibitive.
In response, GDC President Nina Brown emphasized the organization’s commitment to attendee safety. She stated that GDC collaborates closely with local officials and legal experts to monitor U.S. policy changes and provide updated guidance. Brown advised international participants to initiate visa applications early and consult their embassies for specific requirements.
To address safety concerns, GDC has implemented several measures:
– 24/7 Safety Hotline: A dedicated line for immediate assistance.
– Staff Safety Training: Comprehensive training for event personnel.
– Security Escorts: Available upon request for attendees.
– Community Support: Collaboration with San Francisco’s Safety Community Ambassadors to offer additional assistance.
On the financial front, GDC has introduced a more affordable ticketing system. The new Festival Pass, replacing the previous All-Access pass, is priced 45% lower, starting at $649, granting access to all main event programming.
Despite these efforts, the decision to attend remains complex for many international participants, balancing professional opportunities against personal safety and financial constraints.
