The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, making travel planning more important than ever.
Fans may need different visas, travel authorizations, or customs documents depending on their nationality and itinerary.
This guide explains how the FIFA PASS works and how VisaSyst can help manage other required documents, including the U.S. ESTA, Canadian eTA, Mexico customs form, and Visitax.
What Is the FIFA PASS?
The FIFA PASS is an official, voluntary, and free program created by the U.S. government to help international fans prepare for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Its purpose is to provide priority access to B1/B2 visa interview appointments. It’s designed for travelers who already have confirmed World Cup tickets, who may face long waiting times at U.S. embassies or consulates.
The system is linked directly to the official FIFA ticketing platform. It allows eligible applicants to request accelerated visa interview scheduling, after completing the standard visa process.
Overview of the FIFA PASS
The FIFA PASS is not a visa
It’s important to understand that the FIFA PASS is not a visa and does not replace the normal U.S. visa application process. Travelers must still complete the DS-160 form, pay the government visa fees, and attend their consular interview.
Note: VisaSyst does not process the FIFA PASS or the DS-160 form. These are strictly personal procedures managed directly through the official FIFA and U.S. government systems.
Who Can Apply for the FIFA PASS?
The FIFA PASS is designed for citizens of countries that require a B1/B2 visitor visa to enter the United States.
For these travelers, the program can help secure earlier interview availability before the tournament begins.
Who does NOT need it?
- You’re a Canadian citizen
- You already have a valid B1/B2 U.S. visa
- You’re not attending matches in the U.S.
- You’re part of the U.S. Visa Waiver Program and can travel with an ESTA
Many travelers attending matches across North America may only need an ESTA or eTA, depending on their nationality.
What Are the Requirements to Process the FIFA PASS?
To use the FIFA PASS system, travelers must meet all official requirements established by the U.S. government.
- Valid passport
- Valid FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket
- Completed DS-160 visa application form
- Completed payment of the U.S. visa fee
The name and passport number shown on your FIFA ticket, passport, and DS-160 form must match exactly. Even small mistakes, spelling differences, or incorrect passport details can block access to priority interview appointments through the FIFA PASS system.
Before submitting any application, travelers should carefully review all information to avoid delays or complications.
What Visas Do You Need To Attend the Entire 2026 World Cup?
There’s no single “World Cup visa” that covers all 3 host countries. Travelers may need different authorizations depending on where they’re flying, crossing borders, or attending matches.
VisaSyst simplifies the process by assisting with the travel documents required for the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
United States (main host)
The United States will host the majority of the matches during the 2026 World Cup.
Visa-exempt citizens must apply for a U.S. ESTA. We can help travelers process their ESTA quickly and accurately.
Canada
Travelers flying to Canada from visa-exempt countries generally need a Canadian eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization).
They’ll also need a Candian CBSA customs declaration, which can be submitted online.
We can process your eTA and CBSA application to help ensure a smooth arrival for World Cup matches hosted in Canadian cities.
Mexico
Travelers entering Mexico by land need to complete the Mexico FMM tourist card.
Visitors must also complete the Mexico Customs Declaration before entering.
If you’re visiting the Quintana Roo region you’ll also need to pay the Visitax fee.
We assist travelers with all of the Mexico travel documents mentioned above.
Advantages of Processing Your Documents With Us
Preparing for a tournament across 3 different countries can quickly become confusing. Each government platform has different forms, requirements, and processing systems.
Our service helps travelers simplify the process in one centralized place.
Zero technical bureaucracy
Instead of navigating multiple government websites and complex application systems, our team helps manage the required travel documents for you.
Simplified forms
Our application forms have been designed to be as quick and easy as possible to complete, saving you time and stress.
Time-saving and error prevention
Incorrect passport numbers, mismatched names, or incomplete declarations can create delays. We help reduce the risk of problems by reviewing your information before submission.
How Your Documents Are Processed With Our Step-By-Step Form
Complete the formComplete our simplified online form in just a few minutes.
Pay the processing feeSubmit the payment using a debit or credit card.
Receive your documentReceive your approved document by email in PDF format.
FIFA PASS FAQs
Does the FIFA PASS guarantee that my U.S. visa will be approved?
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No. The FIFA PASS only helps eligible travelers obtain faster access to visa interview appointments. All applicants must still meet the normal U.S. visa requirements and pass standard security checks.
Does the FIFA PASS work for entering matches in Mexico or Canada?
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No. The FIFA PASS is exclusively related to U.S. visa interview appointments. Travelers visiting Canada and Mexico may need additional documents.
Do I need the FIFA PASS if I qualify for an ESTA?
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No. Travelers eligible for the ESTA program do not need to use the FIFA PASS system. Processing your ESTA is sufficient for short tourist visits to the United States.
If I bought my ticket on resale, can I use the FIFA PASS?
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No. The FIFA PASS requires tickets purchased directly through FIFA.com or On Location. Resale tickets are not eligible for the program.
Do you manage the FIFA PASS for me?
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No. The FIFA PASS opt-in process and the DS-160 form are strictly personal procedures handled directly through official government and FIFA systems.
Does the FIFA PASS program have any cost?
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The FIFA PASS system itself is free. However, travelers must still pay the official U.S. visa application fees required for the B1/B2 process.
Is there a deadline to take advantage of the FIFA PASS?
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Although there is no officially published closing date, travelers are strongly encouraged to begin the process as early as possible. Visa appointments are limited and processed on a first-come, first-served basis.
What happens if my passport details do not match those on my ticket?
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The system may block access to priority visa interview appointments. Your passport information and name must match exactly across your FIFA ticket, passport, and DS-160 application.