The Oranje is ready to paint North America… well, orange. After a strong qualifying campaign where they topped UEFA Group G, the Netherlands heads into 2026 looking to finally shed the "eternal runners-up" tag and secure their first star. This tournament marks a historic first, with matches spanning the USA, Mexico, and Canada.
![A conceptual graphic featuring a soccer ball decorated with the flags of the host nations (USA, Canada, and Mexico) and the 2026 FIFA logo. A large dark blue header reads "WORLD CUP 2026 - VISA STATUS: APPROVED" with the word "APPROVED" highlighted in a green box. A red "APPROVED" rubber stamp effect is also superimposed directly onto the soccer ball. The background is a blurred stadium filled with spectators under bright lights.]()
Navigating three different countries is as complex as a Total Football formation. Between different visa rules and massive travel distances, logistics shouldn't be what keeps you from the stands. Consider this your official iVisa playbook for the 2026 World Cup.
Here is everything you need to know about The Netherlands’ schedule, their potential path to the final, and the visas you’ll need to get there.
Netherlands’ group stage schedule
The Netherlands has been drawn into Group F. Fans will be pleased to know their group stage journey stays entirely within the United States, minimizing cross-border travel in June.
Match 1: Netherlands vs. Japan
- Date: June 14, 2026
- Venue: AT&T Stadium, Dallas (Arlington), TX
- The Vibe: Kick off the tournament in a "high-tech cathedral". With one of the world's largest video boards, every tactical movement of the Oranje will be visible in stunning detail.
Match 2: Netherlands vs. UEFA Playoff Winner
- Date: June 20, 2026
- Venue: NRG Stadium, Houston, TX
- The Vibe: A short trip south to Houston. Expect a massive turnout from the local international community, creating a high-pressure atmosphere for this crucial second match. UEFA Pathway includes Ukraine, Sweden, Poland, and Albania, any of which can still qualify for the main tournament.
Match 3: Tunisia vs. Netherlands
- Date: June 25, 2026
- Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA
- The Vibe: Moving to the East Coast to wrap up the group stage. This iconic indoor arena features a fast-paced turf that suits the Dutch style of play.
The Knockout Pathway
If the Netherlands tops Group F, their predicted journey toward the final at MetLife Stadium involves a tour of the Eastern and Central United States. They’ll have it all to do if they want to lose their “Eternal Runners Up” tag.
Round of 32: The Dutch soaking up the Florida sun
- Date: July 2, 2026
- Venue: Hard Rock Stadium, Miami, FL
- The Scenario: A win in Group F likely sets up a clash in Miami. The electric Florida atmosphere will feel like a tropical celebration for Dutch fans.
Round of 16: Dutch showdown in Texas
- Date: July 6, 2026
- Venue: AT&T Stadium, Dallas (Arlington), TX
- The Scenario: Returning to the site of their opening match. This is where the competition intensifies against potential heavyweights.
Quarter-Finals: The Heartland Test
- Date: July 10, 2026
- Venue: GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium, Kansas City, MO
- The Scenario: A high-stakes match in one of the world's loudest stadiums. Success here puts the Oranje in the final four.
Semi-Finals: The Atlanta Encore
- Date: July 15, 2026
- Venue: Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, GA
- The Scenario: One more victory in Atlanta is all that stands between the Netherlands and immortality.
The Final: The Grand Stage
- Date: July 19, 2026
- Venue: MetLife Stadium, New York/New Jersey
- The Scenario: The dream concludes in the shadow of the Manhattan skyline. The world will watch to see if the Netherlands can finally secure their first star.
World Cup visas & travel documents for Dutch fans
Traveling between three nations requires precision. You can use the iVisa check tool to see exactly what you need for each host country.
Dutch football fans traveling to the USA
- ESTA vs. B1/B2: As the Netherlands is a Visa Waiver Program country, most Dutch citizens can enter using an ESTA.
- US B1/B2: Certain Dutch travelers may require a US B1/B2 visa. If this is the case, use FIFA PASS to speed up your interview process.
- FIFA PASS: If your ESTA is denied or you require a full B1/B2 visa, the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS) allows fans with confirmed tickets to access faster interview appointments.
When should Dutch fans a B1/B2 Visa Instead of an ESTA?
While most Dutch fans will qualify for an ESTA, you must apply for a full B1/B2 visa if you intend to stay in the United States for longer than 90 days or if your travel purpose is not strictly limited to business or tourism.
You are also required to obtain a visa if you have been arrested, even if it did not result in a conviction, or if you have previously visited certain countries such as Iran, Iraq, or Cuba.
Additionally, if your ESTA application is denied for any reason, the B1/B2 visa is the alternative for legal entry into the U.S. for the World Cup.
![A line graph titled "World Cup 2026: Surge in visa demand" showing the projected increase in U.S. visa applications from 2023 to 2026. The vertical axis measures applications in millions, and the horizontal axis tracks the years. The data shows a steady upward trend, starting at approximately 4 million in 2023 and rising to a projected peak of 11 million in 2026. A caption at the bottom notes that this surge will add significant pressure to the immigration system. The iVisa logo is visible in the top right corner.]()
Dutch football fans traveling to Mexico
- Visa-Free Entry: Dutch citizens currently do not need a traditional stamped visa for short tourism stays in Mexico.
- FMM: You must complete an Electronic Pre-registration (Forma Migratoria Múltiple) before arrival.
Dutch football fans traveling to Canada
- Canada eTA: Most Dutch travelers flying to Canada are eligible for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).
- ArriveCAN: Completing the ArriveCAN travel declaration before arrival can speed up your processing through border control.
How iVisa can help
Navigating three different immigration systems is a headache no fan wants. At iVisa, we specialize in making the complex simple.
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- Apply through a streamlined application portal: Unlike government sites, our application portal wasn’t built by the lowest bidder. This means a smoother experience for our clients, and no glitches or bugs.
- Intuitive US B1/B2 and FIFA PASS application: We’ll handle your FIFA PASS application for you, find your nearest and most efficient processing center, and provide invaluable pre- and post-application support. For the B1/B2 application, this includes a dedicated Key Account Manager, interview preparation, and personal support.
- Multiple supported languages: Language should be the last thing to stand between you and your trip; that’s why we support applications in 14 languages.
- Simplified Forms: We’ve stripped away the confusing bureaucratic jargon. Our application is shorter and much easier to navigate.
- Flexible Document Uploads: Our platform automatically adjusts your photos and documents to meet government specifications, so you don’t have to be a tech expert to apply.
- Guaranteed Payment Success: We accept all major credit cards, debit cards, and even PayPal or Venmo, ensuring your payment goes through the first time.
- 24/7 Customer Support: If you have a question at 2 AM, our team is there to answer it. You’ll never be left wondering about your status.
Do Dutch citizens need a visa for the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the USA?
Answer: Most Dutch citizens do not need a traditional visa for the World Cup 2026 in the USA. Because the Netherlands is part of the Visa Waiver Program, fans can typically enter the United States using an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization). However, if you plan to stay longer than 90 days, have been denied an ESTA, or have visited restricted countries like Iran or Cuba, you may need to apply for a US B1/B2 Visitor Visa.
What is the FIFA PASS, and how does it help Dutch fans?
Answer: The FIFA PASS (Priority Appointment Scheduling System) is a new initiative designed to speed up the US visa process for confirmed ticket holders. If you are a Dutch fan who is ineligible for an ESTA and requires a B1/B2 visa, the FIFA PASS allows you to access faster interview appointments at the US Embassy, helping you secure your travel documents in time for the tournament.
When is the Netherlands’ first match in the 2026 World Cup?
Answer: The Netherlands (Oranje) will play their opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup on June 14, 2026. The game will take place at AT&T Stadium in Dallas (Arlington), Texas, against Japan. Fans are encouraged to apply for their ESTA or US visa at least several months in advance to avoid the expected rush in early 2026.
Do I need separate visas to follow the Netherlands to matches in Mexico and Canada?
Answer: Entry requirements vary by country.
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USA: Requires an ESTA or B1/B2 visa.
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Canada: Dutch citizens generally need an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for air travel.
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Mexico: Dutch citizens typically enjoy visa-free entry for tourism. If your travel route involves crossing borders between these three host nations, ensure you have the specific digital authorization (ESTA or eTA) for each country before you fly.
How long does it take to process a US ESTA for the World Cup?
Answer: A US ESTA is usually processed within 72 hours, but during major events like the FIFA World Cup 2026, system delays are possible. To ensure a stress-free trip to support the Netherlands, iVisa recommends applying for your ESTA as soon as you have your travel itinerary or match tickets.
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