World Cup 2026: FIFA PASS to Offer Priority U.S. Visa Interviews for Ticket Holders
U.S. President Donald Trump and FIFA president Gianni Infantino hold a 2026 FIFA World Cup final match ticket that was presented to President Trump, as the President makes an announcement on the 2026 FIFA World Cup, while U.S. Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem stands, in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., August 22, 2025. REUTERS/Jonathan Ernst
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will bring the world’s biggest football tournament to North America, with matches scheduled across the United States, Canada and Mexico. The expanded format will feature 48 competing teams, and eleven U.S. cities are expected to host a total of 78 games during the summer. Supporters could find themselves watching matches in major destinations such as Dallas, Philadelphia or Seattle.
As international fans prepare travel plans, the United States has introduced a special visa system to support visitors attending matches. The initiative, called the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System — better known as FIFA PASS — will allow ticket holders to request priority appointments for U.S. visitor visa interviews ahead of the competition.
According to U.S. officials, FIFA PASS will not change the normal security and background procedures for B-1/B-2 visitor visas. Instead, the system is designed to help fans secure interview dates earlier than standard applicants, reducing the waiting period at U.S. embassies and consulates.
Anyone who has purchased a match ticket for a World Cup game in the United States and does not already hold a valid U.S. visitor visa can use the FIFA PASS system. Travelers from countries included in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program will not need to apply for a visa, as they can enter the United States through ESTA approval. Citizens of Canada and Bermuda can travel to the U.S. for the World Cup without applying for a visa, meaning they do not need to use FIFA PASS.
FIFA PASS has not officially opened for bookings, but appointments are expected to be available in early 2026. Until then, fans who can find regular visa interview slots in their country are encouraged to submit their applications in advance. Supporters seeking updates can follow the U.S. Department of State’s announcements.
While the United States will host the majority of fixtures, Canada and Mexico will also enforce their own entry rules during the tournament. Most travelers entering Canada will need either a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization, though U.S. passport holders and Green Card residents can enter with their national passport. Mexico maintains visa-free travel for a large number of countries, while visitors from certain regions must apply for a travel visa before arrival. U.S. and Canadian citizens do not need a visa to enter Mexico during the World Cup.
The 2026 tournament marks the first time three nations will jointly host a World Cup and the first time the competition will include 48 national teams. Organizers expect a major wave of international tourism, and the new visa process aims to make travel easier for supporters hoping to experience the event live in stadiums across North America.
