Do I need a visa for the 2026 World Cup?
Quick Answer
It depends on your nationality. Citizens of 42 countries (including most of Europe, Japan, South Korea, Australia) can enter the US visa-free using ESTA. Others need a B1/B2 US tourist visa. FIFA PASS — a priority visa appointment system — is available to ticket holders. Note: FIFA PASS is not a visa itself and doesn't guarantee approval.
Detailed Explanation
Since the 2026 World Cup spans three countries, fans may need to meet multiple entry requirements. For the US (hosting 60+ matches), citizens of 42 Visa Waiver Program countries can use ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) for stays up to 90 days. All other nationals need a B1/B2 tourist visa — FIFA PASS, created by the US State Department, gives ticket holders priority appointment scheduling at US embassies. For Canada, many nationalities need an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization). For Mexico, citizens of many countries can enter visa-free for tourism. Fans traveling between host countries should verify entry requirements for each nation well in advance.
📌Key Points
- 142 countries can enter the US visa-free via ESTA (Visa Waiver Program)
- 2All other nationalities need a B1/B2 US tourist visa
- 3FIFA PASS: priority visa appointment for ticket holders (not a visa itself)
- 4Canada: eTA required for many nationalities
- 5Mexico: visa-free for tourism for many countries
- 6Apply early — high demand expected at US embassies before the tournament
- 7Fans attending matches in multiple countries need to check each country's requirements