US launches FIFA Pass for World Cup 2026 priority visa appointments

Ticket holders can now schedule priority visa appointments, but fans from countries under travel bans may still be ineligible

World Cup 2026 ticket holders can now schedule priority visa appointments to travel to the United States through a new system called FIFA Pass. The FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System went live on January 21, 2026.

The system was introduced to help fans from countries where standard visa appointment wait times might not allow them to receive a visa before the tournament begins this summer. On the official US Department of State FIFA World Cup 26 Visas page, President Donald Trump stated:

"This will be a once in a lifetime opportunity to showcase the beauty and the greatness of America. And we can't wait to welcome soccer fans from all over the globe."

According to the State Department, FIFA Pass "gives those who purchase FIFA World Cup 2026™ tickets directly from FIFA and who opt in to FIFA PASS the chance to interview before the tournament begins."

Who needs a US visa for the World Cup?

According to the State Department, visa requirements depend on your nationality:

• Canadian and Bermudian passport holders do not require any additional authorization to seek entry into the United States as tourists
• Citizens of the 42 VWP (Visa Waiver Program) countries can apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) instead of a visa
• Fans from all other countries are required to have a valid US visitor visa (B1/B2) to travel to the United States for the FIFA World Cup 2026

All visitors must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay, unless they are from an exempt country.

Fans from travel ban countries may be ineligible

Nationals from countries subject to US travel restrictions face additional barriers. Haiti and Iran, both of which have qualified for the World Cup, are on the list of countries with full travel restrictions. Ivory Coast and Senegal, also qualified, are subject to partial restrictions.

Exceptions to the travel ban exist for athletes, coaches, support staff, and their immediate relatives, but these exceptions do not apply to fans or spectators. Fans from restricted countries can still submit visa applications, but they may be denied.

Where matches will be held

The United States will host 78 of the 104 total World Cup matches across 11 cities. The final will take place at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.