In a bid to accommodate the anticipated influx of football fans for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the United States government has announced a special facilitation for international visitors. Those who have purchased official match tickets will be eligible for priority access to visa interviews, a measure designed to streamline the entry process for the world’s football enthusiasts.
With the 2026 World Cup approaching, interest in travelling to the United States has surged. However, previous criticisms have highlighted the complex and time-consuming nature of the US visa application process, which could pose challenges for thousands of international visitors. In response, authorities have introduced this priority scheme to ensure that genuine ticket holders face fewer delays.
Who Qualifies for Priority
This privilege is not automatically available to all applicants. Only those who have purchased official tickets directly from FIFA are eligible. Ticket holders must first register through the FIFA PASS system, which verifies the authenticity of their tickets. Once verified, applicants can secure a priority visa interview appointment.
The US Embassy in Mexico has advised:
“If you have purchased your ticket directly from FIFA, please register on fifa.com via FIFA PASS. This will allow you to schedule a visa interview on a priority basis.”
Why is FIFA PASS Important
The FIFA PASS serves as the central element of this facilitation programme. Once registration and ticket verification are complete, applicants can obtain faster visa interview dates. This is particularly beneficial at high-demand consulates, where waiting times are traditionally longer.
Does Priority Guarantee a Visa
Authorities have emphasised that priority scheduling does not guarantee visa approval. Every applicant must undergo the standard vetting process and meet all immigration requirements. As the embassy noted:
“All visa applications will be assessed according to the established procedures, and consular officers retain the final authority.”
Recommended Preparations
Fans planning to attend the 2026 World Cup are advised to follow these steps:
| Step | Action |
|---|---|
| 1 | Purchase official FIFA World Cup tickets |
| 2 | Register promptly on FIFA PASS |
| 3 | Initiate the visa application process early |
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, attracting hundreds of thousands of international spectators. This priority visa measure aims to ease the journey for fans, allowing them to focus on enjoying one of the world’s greatest sporting spectacles.