The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with most matches taking place in the US. If you're planning to attend, understanding visa requirements is essential.
Three Ways to Enter the United States
1. Visa-Free Entry
Passport holders from these countries can enter the US without a visa:
- Canadian citizens
- Bermudian citizens
2. ESTA (Visa Waiver Program)
Citizens from 42 Visa Waiver Program countries can apply for Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) without an interview.
Common ESTA countries include: UK, Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, most EU countries, etc.
3. B1/B2 Visitor Visa
Fans from all other countries (including China) must apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa to enter the United States for the World Cup.
FIFA PASS Priority Appointment System
To help World Cup fans obtain visas, the U.S. Department of State has launched FIFA PASS (FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System).
What is FIFA PASS?
FIFA PASS allows fans who purchased World Cup tickets directly from FIFA to schedule priority visa interview appointments before the tournament begins.
Application Steps
Step 1: Submit FIFA PASS Application Log into your FIFA.com account and submit the FIFA PASS opt-in form.
Step 2: Complete Visa Application Process
- Select the country where you'll apply (country of nationality or residence)
- Complete the DS-160 online visa application form
- Upload photo and pay the visa fee
Step 3: Schedule Your Interview Use the FIFA PASS system to book a priority interview slot.
Important Notes
- FIFA PASS does not guarantee visa approval — All applicants must still pass security screening and demonstrate visa eligibility
- Family members can join — Spouses and minor children can use FIFA PASS, but must interview together with the ticket holder
- 400+ additional consular officers deployed — The US has assigned extra staff worldwide to handle World Cup visa demand
Special Policy: Travel Ban Exemption
Presidential Proclamation 10998 restricts visa issuance to nationals of certain countries. However, it includes a sports event exemption:
Athletes, coaches, support staff, and their immediate relatives traveling for the World Cup, Olympic Games, or other major sporting events are exempt.
Passport Validity Requirement
All visitors to the United States must have a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond their intended stay (some exempt countries excluded).
Summary
| Situation | Entry Method |
|---|---|
| Canadian/Bermudian citizens | Visa-free |
| 42 Visa Waiver countries | ESTA |
| Other countries (incl. China) | B1/B2 Visa |
| FIFA official ticket holders | FIFA PASS priority booking |
Need to book a US visa interview? LuckyBee offers professional visa appointment services to help you secure your preferred interview date.
Source: U.S. Department of State