In anticipation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the United States government has announced a special initiative aimed at easing travel for international football enthusiasts. Fans who have purchased official match tickets will now be eligible for priority visa appointments, ensuring a faster and more streamlined application process.
The move comes amid rising interest in visiting the United States for the tournament, coupled with longstanding concerns over the often complex and time-consuming visa process. By introducing this measure, the U.S. aims to facilitate smoother entry for foreign visitors while maintaining standard security and immigration checks.
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Who Qualifies for Priority Access
Not all applicants will automatically receive this benefit. The priority system is exclusively available to individuals who have purchased tickets directly from FIFA. These ticket holders must first register with the FIFA PASS platform, which verifies the authenticity of their tickets. Once registration is confirmed, applicants can schedule visa interviews with priority status.
The U.S. Embassy in Mexico elaborated:
“If you have purchased your ticket directly from FIFA, please register with FIFA PASS at fifa.com. This will grant you priority access when scheduling your visa interview.”
Why FIFA PASS Matters
FIFA PASS serves as the backbone of this process. It not only verifies ticket authenticity but also expedites the visa interview scheduling, particularly at consulates experiencing high volumes of applicants. By reducing waiting times, it ensures that eligible fans can secure appointments well in advance of the tournament.
Does Priority Appointment Guarantee a Visa
U.S. authorities are clear: priority access to an interview does not guarantee visa approval. Each applicant must undergo the standard verification process and meet all immigration requirements. The final decision rests with the consular officer handling the application.
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Eligible Applicants | Official FIFA ticket holders only |
| Required Step | Registration on FIFA PASS |
| Benefit | Priority visa interview appointment |
| Visa Approval | Not guaranteed; standard checks apply |
| Final Authority | U.S. consular officer |
Tips for Fans
Football enthusiasts planning to attend the 2026 World Cup are advised to:
Purchase official FIFA tickets well in advance.
Register promptly on FIFA PASS to verify ticket authenticity.
Begin the visa application process early to avoid delays.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, marking the first time the tournament features 48 teams across multiple cities. Organisers anticipate the arrival of hundreds of thousands of international fans, making early preparation and the priority visa programme essential for a smooth World Cup experience.