Good News for World Cup Fans: US to Prioritise Visa Appointments for Ticket Holders
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is just around the corner, and excitement is building as football fans around the world scramble to get their tickets for the tournament. With the first match kicking off in June, the anticipation for the “greatest show on Earth” is palpable. As ticket sales surge, there’s now even better news for those lucky enough to secure their place at the stadium.
In a major announcement, US President Donald Trump confirmed that travellers holding World Cup tickets will receive priority scheduling for US visa appointments. Speaking from the White House on Monday, Trump revealed that FIFA’s “Prioritised Appointment Scheduling System” (PASS) would allow ticket holders to fast-track their visa interview process, bypassing the typical long waits. This move will make it easier for fans from around the world to attend the tournament across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
How It Works: Faster US Visa Processing for World Cup Ticket Holders
According to US Secretary of State, Marco Rubio, simply having a World Cup ticket does not guarantee automatic entry into the United States. However, FIFA ticket holders can expect to have their visa interviews scheduled within six to eight weeks of applying, a significant improvement over the usual wait time.
Rubio clarified, “While your World Cup ticket does not act as a visa, nor does it guarantee entry into the US, the key difference is that ticket holders will be moved to the front of the queue.” He also assured fans that security checks will remain in place, as they would for any other traveller.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who joined Trump and Rubio for the announcement, mentioned that up to 10 million visitors could flock to the US for the World Cup. He highlighted that the PASS system would ensure football fans, the true supporters of the sport, receive the best possible treatment when it comes to securing their visa and entering the country to experience the event.
Potential Challenges: Visa Delays and Restrictions Still Apply
While the new prioritisation system offers a welcome relief for World Cup ticket holders, it is not without potential challenges. The Trump administration has imposed stricter visa policies in recent years, leading to significant delays for many nationalities. In fact, some countries have seen long waits for visa appointments.
For example, in Colombia, the wait time for a visa interview currently stands at nearly 11 months, while in Mexico City, applicants may face delays of up to 9.5 months. In Toronto, where non-Canadian citizens must apply for US visas, the waiting period can extend to 14 months.
If these delays persist, many fans could find themselves struggling to get their visas approved before the World Cup begins, even after the long qualifying process.
New Restrictions on Certain Countries’ Fans: Who Might Be Affected?
Another potential hurdle for World Cup fans comes from the US’s ongoing travel restrictions. Last June, President Trump issued an executive order barring nationals from 12 countries from entering the US due to security concerns. Among those affected is Iran, whose national football team has already qualified for the 2026 World Cup. While players and coaching staff will be granted exceptions for the tournament, ordinary fans from Iran may still face difficulties obtaining visas.
For countries like the UK, most of Europe, Japan, Australia, and others covered under the US’s Visa Waiver Programme, citizens will not need a visa for stays of up to 90 days. However, this exemption does not apply to countries affected by the travel ban, including Iran and several others.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for the 2026 World Cup?
The 2026 World Cup, which will feature 48 teams for the first time in history, is already shaping up to be a landmark event. To date, 34 teams have qualified, including newcomers Cape Verde, Uzbekistan, and Jordan.
The official World Cup draw will take place on 5 December in Washington, DC, where the final teams will learn their fates and prepare for what promises to be a thrilling month of football.
Visa Processing Summary: Key Waiting Times Around the World
| Country | Average Waiting Time for Visa Appointment |
|---|---|
| Colombia | 11 months |
| Mexico | 9.5 months |
| Toronto (Canada) | 14 months |
Despite the ongoing challenges, the US’s new prioritisation system will certainly help smooth the process for those with World Cup tickets. However, fans from certain countries may still face complications due to the ongoing restrictions and long wait times.
With the 2026 World Cup fast approaching, it’s time to start preparing for the tournament of a lifetime – and that includes ensuring your visa is sorted in time!