GDC faces international attendance drop over safety and ICE concerns

The 2026 Game Developers Conference (GDC) is expected to have fewer international attendees this year, if commentary on social media platforms like LinkedIn is an indicator. Many members of the international games industry, including developers, past attendees, and other industry professionals, have publicly announced they will skip the event. Their decisions are mainly driven by safety fears, tougher U.S. immigration rules, and a stronger presence of ICE (U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement).

The event is scheduled to take place in San Francisco from March 9 to March 13, but anxiety regarding safety has intensified following recent fatal shootings in Minneapolis involving ICE agents. In those incidents, Renee Nicole Good was killed on January 7, and ICU nurse Alex Pretti lost his life on January 24. These events, alongside worries over unpredictable border checks, have driven safety fears among potential GDC attendees. One anonymous attendee remarked that taking the risk to attend is simply not worth it, while another described the U.S. as a highly problematic location for hosting an international gathering.

In response to these concerns, GDC president Nina Brown told publication Mobilegamer.biz that the “safety of our community is always our top priority.” In a statement, Brown said GDC works closely with local officials and legal experts to monitor U.S. policy changes and provide up-to-date guidance. She advised international attendees to start visa applications early and consult embassies regarding special requirements. To support attendees, GDC is highlighting safety measures such as a 24/7 safety hotline, staff safety training, security escorts upon request, and the presence of San Francisco’s Safety Community Ambassadors program.

On the cost front, some indie developers and small studios have noted that the total expenses—including hotel, food, travel, and ticket prices—are too high. To make the event more accessible, GDC has introduced a simpler, more affordable ticketing system. The new Festival Pass replaces the previous All-Access pass and is 45% cheaper, with pricing starting at $649 to provide access to all main event programming.

Why it matters

The tension between hosting an international industry event in the U.S. and the geopolitical and safety realities facing international travelers is forcing organizers to balance security assurances with accessibility. For the broader tech and gaming sectors, it highlights how domestic immigration enforcement and local safety concerns can directly disrupt international business corridors.