The 2026 World Cup, set to take place in the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to attract a massive following of international fans. However, attendees from certain countries may encounter visa hurdles. To facilitate travel, a new system has been introduced – the Fifa Prioritised Appointment Scheduling System, also known as Fifa Pass. Announced by US President Donald Trump in November, the system aims to expedite visa appointments for fans from countries whose teams have qualified for the tournament.
The US State Department has emphasized that a Fifa Pass does not guarantee a visa, as applicants must still undergo security checks and meet the necessary visa requirements. Fans from countries participating in the US visa waiver program, including much of Europe, the UK, Japan, and Australia, are exempt from the Fifa Pass and can travel using an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for up to 90 days.
According to a senior State Department official, the new system reduces wait times, with over 80% of countries able to schedule appointments in under 60 days. During the visa interview, applicants must demonstrate their eligibility for a visa and commitment to adhering to US laws during their stay. The impact of recent immigrant visa suspensions from 75 countries, including 15 that have qualified for the World Cup, such as Brazil, will not affect non-immigrant visas, which cover tourists, athletes, and media professionals.
Countries affected by the pause in immigrant visa processing include Algeria, Brazil, and Morocco, among others. However, fans from these nations can still apply for non-immigrant visas to attend the tournament. The Fifa Pass system is expected to streamline the visa application process, making it easier for international fans to attend the 2026 World Cup. As the tournament approaches, the US State Department will continue to process visa applications, ensuring a smooth and secure experience for all attendees. With the introduction of the Fifa Pass system, fans can look forward to a more efficient and convenient travel experience.
