Fast-track US visas 2026 World Cup ticket holders
The United States has announced a new expedited visa appointment system to help manage the surge of international visitors expected for the FIFA World Cup 2026.
President Donald Trump unveiled the initiative on Monday, introducing a program that grants priority visa interview scheduling to fans who have purchased official match tickets.
Under the “FIFA Pass” program, ticket holders who buy through FIFA’s platform will be able to secure faster interview appointments with the U.S. State Department.
FIFA will administer the system, verifying ticket ownership and coordinating prioritization.
U.S. officials warned that priority appointments don’t guarantee a visa.
“Your ticket is not a visa,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio said. “It guarantees you an expedited appointment—you still undergo the same vetting.”
To support the program, the State Department has added 400 consular officers, doubling staffing in several countries.
Fans using the FIFA Pass can expect interviews within six to eight weeks, and Rubio urged supporters to apply early.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino, who appeared with Trump at the White House, projected 5 to 10 million international visitors for the tournament.
FIFA said over one million tickets have already been sold to fans across 212 countries, with more details on the visa process to be released in early 2026.
Despite the streamlined system, the administration acknowledged that some applicants may still be denied entry, especially amid concerns over stricter U.S. immigration policies.
The World Cup, co-hosted by the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, with 11 American cities hosting matches.
The tournament draw is scheduled for December 5 in Washington, where FIFA will also unveil a new peace prize.
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