Key points
- FIFA PASS is a priority scheduling system to help fans reach the 2026 World Cup on time.
- It is for official ticket holders who need a US B1/B2 visa; ESTA-eligible travelers do not need it.
- It speeds up the interview date only, not the visa decision or security screening.
- You opt in through your FIFA ticketing account, then complete the standard DS-160 and pay U.S. visa fees.
- Priority scheduling does not guarantee a visa or entry into the U.S.
With the FIFA 2026 World Cup kickoff just months away, millions of fans are hitting a major roadblock: travel logistics. With 48 teams competing across the USA, Mexico, and Canada, the demand for travel documents is unprecedented.
To help fans avoid missing the opening whistle over administrative delays, the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS) is now live. If you are a ticket holder who needs a US B1/B2 visa, this guide explains how the FIFA PASS can expedite your appointment.
What exactly is the FIFA PASS?
The FIFA PASS (Priority Appointment Scheduling System) is an official travel facilitation initiative launched by FIFA in collaboration with the U.S. Department of State.
It is designed to help ticket holders navigate the lengthy wait times currently affecting U.S. Embassies and Consulates worldwide.
Key benefits of FIFA PASS
- Priority access: Provides ticket holders with earlier visa interview slots.
- Targeted support: Focuses on applicants in regions with high visa wait times.
- Official integration: Works directly with your FIFA ticketing account.
Why is the FIFA PASS necessary?
The FIFA PASS was introduced to address the predicted surge in global travelers during the tournament and the strain it may place on host countries’ immigration infrastructure. By giving ticket holders priority access to appointment interviews, the system aims to speed up US B1/B2 visa scheduling.
Who is the FIFA PASS for?
FIFA PASS is available to travelers who meet all of these conditions:
- You require a US B1/B2 visa to attend the World Cup (ESTA-eligible travelers do not need it).
- Your ticket was purchased directly from FIFA (FIFA.com/tickets) or through On Location. Transferred tickets also qualify: the recipient creates a FIFA.com account, accepts the transfer, and completes the FIFA PASS opt-in form using a “Key” provided by the original buyer.
- You have opted in to FIFA PASS through your FIFA.com account.
- You are applying in your own country of nationality or residence. FIFA PASS is generally not available for booking an appointment in a third country.
Spouses and minor children can join the ticket holder at the interview and use the priority slot, even without their own ticket, provided they attend together.
Applicants need to fulfill the requirements above to qualify for FIFA PASS. Keep in mind that FIFA PASS only secures a priority interview slot — it does not guarantee visa approval.
iVisa ProTip: Travelers visiting the USA on a US ESTA do not need to attend an interview and therefore don’t need to apply for a FIFA PASS. You can double-check what type of travel document you need with our visa checking tool.
How does FIFA PASS work?
As of January 2026, the system is fully operational. Here is the process:
- Opt in via FIFA: If you meet all four eligibility requirements above, log into your official FIFA.com ticketing account and submit the FIFA PASS opt-in form. A match ticket on its own does not open the form or grant a priority appointment.
- Standard visa application: Complete your DS-160 form online and pay the required U.S. government visa fees.
- Priority scheduling: Once opted in, you will be directed to a priority channel to schedule your interview appointment at your local consulate.
- Consular interview: Attend your interview. While scheduling is prioritized, the visa decision criteria remain the same.
Alternatively, you can apply for iVisa’s World Cup Visa offering and let iVisa handle the paperwork. Either way, apply as soon as possible, as consular interview slots are limited and demand rises as the tournament approaches.
What should I keep in mind when using FIFA PASS?
FIFA PASS does not guarantee issuance of a visa, an expedited final decision, or entry into the U.S. It only gives priority access to interview scheduling. All standard visa requirements still apply: the DS-160, visa fees, the interview, security vetting, and admissibility screening by consular officers. Put simply, holding a FIFA World Cup ticket does not mean you will be granted a B1/B2 visa.
Why choose iVisa for your US B1/B2 visa and FIFA PASS?
With iVisa in your corner, you get support with both your B1/B2 visa application and your FIFA PASS. You also have access to an online support team, a key account manager (KAM) to guide you through the process, and coaching sessions to prepare for your interview. Note that iVisa charges a service fee for this support, which is separate from the U.S. government visa fee.
Apply for your World Cup visa now
FIFA PASS FAQ
Does FIFA PASS cost extra? No. The FIFA PASS is a voluntary, opt-in system provided at no additional cost to official ticket holders. Standard U.S. government visa application fees still apply, and any iVisa assistance carries its own separate service fee.
Can my family use FIFA PASS? Spouses and minor children can join the ticket holder at the priority interview and use the priority slot, even if they don’t hold their own match ticket, provided they attend together.
What if I bought my ticket from a third party? FIFA PASS is only available for tickets purchased directly from FIFA (FIFA.com/tickets) or through On Location, or for tickets transferred officially: the recipient creates a FIFA.com account, accepts the transfer, and completes the FIFA PASS opt-in form using a “Key” provided by the original buyer. Tickets bought from unofficial resellers do not qualify.
Entry requirements can change, so treat this as general guidance and confirm the current rules with FIFA and official U.S. government sources before you travel. iVisa is a private travel-document service, not a government agency, and cannot guarantee approval of any application.
Travel visas for other countries
- Visa for Honduras
- Visa for Dominican Republic
- Visa for Canada
- Visa for Mexico
- Visa for Belize
- Visa for Philippines
