- The US government has released fresh visa and travel guidance for fans attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup
- Foreign travelers requiring US visas have been urged to begin applications immediately to avoid delays
- All applicants must pass security and eligibility screening before entry into the US
The United States has released additional guidance for foreign travelers planning to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup, outlining visa requirements and introducing a priority interview system for ticket holders.
The latest update follows the US government’s recent decision to ease visa bond requirements for some World Cup travellers as preparations intensify for the global football tournament co-hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
According to information published by the US Department of State, fans who require visas are being advised to begin their applications immediately to avoid delays before the competition begins in June 2026.
“If you need a U.S. visa and don’t have one yet, NOW is the time to apply!” the department stated on its official World Cup travel advisory page.
The agency added that the visa process remains part of broader efforts to protect national security and ensure the safety of players, officials, and supporters attending the tournament.
Under the updated travel guidelines, all foreign visitors entering the United States must possess passports valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay, except citizens of countries exempt from the rule.
The US Department of State has released updated travel guidelines and introduced a priority appointment system called FIFA PASS to help eligible ticket holders secure visa interview appointments before the tournament begins.
Here is a complete step-by-step guide on how to get a US visa for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
How to get US visa for World Cup
1. Confirm whether you need a US visa
- Before starting your application, check your country’s travel requirements.
- Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not need additional tourist authorisation to enter the US.
- Travellers from countries under the Visa Waiver Programme can apply through ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).
- Fans from countries not included in the Visa Waiver Programme must apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa.
The US government advised applicants to check country-specific information on its official FIFA World Cup visa page before proceeding.
2. Ensure your passport is valid
- All travellers entering the United States must hold passports valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay.
- Applicants from exempt countries may have different requirements, but officials recommend renewing passports early to avoid complications.
3. Purchase your FIFA World Cup ticket
- Fans hoping to benefit from FIFA PASS priority interview scheduling must first purchase official World Cup tickets directly through FIFA.
- Those who received tickets through FIFA’s transfer system must first create a FIFA ticketing account and officially accept the transferred ticket.
4. Opt into FIFA PASS
After purchasing your ticket:
- Log into your FIFA.com ticketing account.
- Complete the FIFA PASS opt-in form.
- Submit your information for verification.
The FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS) was introduced to help eligible fans secure earlier visa interview dates before the World Cup begins.
5. Complete the DS-160 visa application form
- Applicants requiring a visitor visa must fill out the DS-160 online application form.
During the process, applicants will need to:
- Select the country where they will apply
- Upload a recent passport photograph
- Provide personal and travel details
- Submit the completed form online
Applicants should ensure all information matches the details submitted during FIFA PASS registration.
6. Pay the US visa fee
- After completing the DS-160 form, applicants must pay the required B1/B2 visitor visa fee.
- Payment methods and procedures may differ depending on the country where the application is submitted.
7. Schedule your visa interview
- Once payment is completed, applicants can book a visa interview appointment at a US embassy or consulate.
- During the booking process, fans should answer “Yes” if asked whether they are FIFA World Cup ticket holders.
- If the information provided during the FIFA PASS registration matches the visa application details, applicants may receive access to priority appointment scheduling.
8. Attend your visa interview
Applicants must appear for an interview at the US embassy or consulate with the required documents, which may include:
- Valid passport
- DS-160 confirmation page
- Visa fee receipt
- Passport photographs
- FIFA World Cup ticket confirmation
- Supporting financial or travel documents
US officials stated that all applicants will undergo security and eligibility screening.
9. Wait for visa processing
- After the interview, the embassy will determine whether the visa is approved.
- The US Department of State stressed that access to FIFA PASS or priority scheduling does not guarantee visa approval.
“Like all visa applicants, ticket holders must undergo thorough screening and must demonstrate they qualify for a visa,” the department stated.
Important things fans should know
- Apply as early as possible to avoid delays.
- FIFA PASS only helps with interview scheduling, not visa approval.
- Travellers from Visa Waiver Programme countries may not need a traditional visa.
- Passport validity rules are strictly enforced.
- The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
FIFA World Cup 2026: New Jersey cuts match transport prices after backlash
Meanwhile, TheRadar earlier reported that transport fares for fans attending matches at the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 have been reduced following widespread criticism over the high cost of travelling to venues in the United States.
Authorities have now revised the transport costs downward after fans described the earlier fares as unreasonable.
Train ticket prices were reduced from $98, while shuttle bus fares were also slashed from $20.