United States Launches “FIFA Pass” to Expedite Visas for 2026 World Cup Fans
As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, the United States has unveiled a special program to facilitate entry for millions of international fans.
Dubbed the “FIFA Pass”, the initiative offers priority visa appointments exclusively for holders of official tournament tickets. The World Cup will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, featuring 48 teams competing in 104 matches, with five to ten million visitors expected across North America. Eleven of the sixteen host cities are in the U.S., including New York/New Jersey, Los Angeles, Dallas, and Miami, which will host the grand final.
Priority Appointments, Not Automatic Entry
The FIFA Prioritized Appointment Scheduling System allows verified ticket holders to request accelerated visa interviews at U.S. embassies and consulates. Officials have emphasized that possessing a ticket does not guarantee a visa; applicants must still pass standard security checks, consular interviews, and background screenings.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted that the system reduces waiting times but does not remove eligibility requirements. To meet demand, the U.S. Department of State has deployed over 400 additional consular officers worldwide, doubling staff in some strategic markets.
The announcement comes amid sensitive developments in U.S. immigration policy. Since mid-2025, the government has restricted entry for citizens of certain African and Middle Eastern countries, citing national security concerns. While participating teams are unaffected, some sports delegations have already experienced visa delays, raising international concern.
A White House FIFA 2026 Task Force has also been established to coordinate improvements in infrastructure, mobility, and tourism promotion. The event coincides with the 250th anniversary of U.S. independence, presenting a historic opportunity to showcase the country as a host.
The World Cup is expected to generate over $5 billion in economic impact, benefiting hotels, airlines, restaurants, and local businesses in host cities. Destinations like Atlanta, Miami, New York, Dallas, and Los Angeles are preparing for one of the largest visitor influxes in their history. For fans, particularly from Latin America, Europe, and Asia, the FIFA Pass is a crucial tool to shorten visa processing times, which currently can exceed six months in some countries.
The initiative aims to project openness and hospitality amid increasing global border controls. If successful, the FIFA Pass could serve as a model for future mega sporting events. Failure, however, could impact the tournament’s international reputation and the perception of the U.S. as a host nation.
With ticket sales breaking records and the official draw scheduled for December 2025, the message is clear: the 2026 World Cup is underway, and expedited visas are central to ensuring that North American stadiums are filled with fans from around the globe.
