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Updated June 2024
Just two years after the breathtaking FIFA World Cup in Qatar, the global football community is already buzzing with excitement for the 2026 edition. With schedules and ticket remainders now out, the anticipation is reaching a fever pitch. But beyond the thrill of the game, there’s a crucial step most fans need to tackle: securing visas for the host countries to experience the action live.
Read on this Wego article for a comprehensive understanding and guidance on obtaining visas for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
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Where is the World Cup happening in 2026?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be a historic event hosted by three nations: the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
In the United States, matches will be played in Atlanta, Boston, Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, the San Francisco Bay Area, and Seattle. In Canada, Vancouver and Toronto will host the games. Meanwhile, Mexico will welcome fans to Monterrey, Guadalajara, and Mexico City.
For more details on each city’s contributions, the latest updates, and the overarching excitement, visit the official FIFA World Cup website.
However, to truly immerse yourself in the roars and cheers reverberating through the stadiums, the visa process stands as a major prerequisite. Let’s delve into the details in the following section.
Do you need a visa to watch the World Cup 2026?
As mentioned earlier, the FIFA World Cup 2026 is being hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. If you are a national of a country that is exempt from the visa requirement for any of these countries, you can simply pack your bags, catch a flight, and head to the stadium. You can check the official websites of the United States, Canada, and Mexico to confirm if you are eligible for visa-free travel.
If you do need a visa, it is important to plan your trip in advance and take the necessary precautions, especially since obtaining a visa for countries like the USA can take considerable time to process.
How to obtain a visa for the 2026 World Cup?
If your country requires a visa to enter any of the three host nations, you must apply for a visitor visa specific to the country where your match will be held.
Remember, a visa for one host country does not grant access to the others. Each country has its own visa requirements and processes. However, there are some exceptions:
- with a U.S. multiple-entry tourist visa, you are allowed to visit Mexico for up to 180 days, but you will still need a tourist visa to enter Canada
- with a Canadian visa, you cannot enter the U.S. or Mexico and will need to apply for their visas separately
- with a Mexican visa, you cannot enter the U.S. or Canada without obtaining specific visas for those countries
Based on your plans for attending matches, you can determine which country’s visas you need to apply for. Now, let’s delve into the specific processes and requirements for applying for these visas.
The United States
The United States is the epicentre of the excitement, hosting a whopping 78 out of 104 matches. With a multiple-entry tourist visa, you can also gain free entry to Mexico for 13 more thrilling games, giving you access to a total of 91 matches. Here’s how to Get Your B-2 Tourist Visa:
- fill out the DS-160 form: this is the online nonimmigrant visa application
- pay the visa fee: the fee is typically around $160
- schedule an interview: if you’re between 14 and 79 years old, you’ll need to attend an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate
- gather necessary documents: ensure you have a valid passport, DS-160 confirmation page, visa fee receipt, a photo that meets U.S. visa requirements, and supporting documents like proof of funds and travel itinerary
- attend the visa interview: be prepared to discuss your travel plans and the purpose of your visit
Successful applicants will receive their visas, but remember, processing times can range from a few days to several weeks, and in some cases, even months. Check out our blog for tips on expediting your visa process!
Canada
If you’re aiming to catch matches in Canada or travelling between the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, you’ll need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). And here’s how to secure your TRV:
- complete the application form: apply online on the official Canadian website
- pay the visa fee: currently CAD $100 for a single or multiple-entry visa
- provide biometrics: depending on your nationality, you might need to give fingerprints and a photo
- submit required documents: this includes a valid passport, proof of funds, and your travel itinerary
- submit the application: online through the IRCC website or on paper at a Visa Application Center (VAC)
Canada’s visa processing is usually quicker than the U.S., typically taking 14 to 30 days.
Mexico
With a U.S. multiple-entry tourist visa, visiting Mexico is a breeze. However, if you need a dedicated Mexican visa, here’s how to get one:
- complete the application form: available online or at a Mexican embassy/consulate
- pay the visa fee: around USD $36
- schedule an appointment: at your nearest Mexican Embassy or Consulate
- gather required documentation: includes a valid passport, completed application form, passport-sized photos, bank statements, travel itinerary, and a return or onward ticket
- attend the appointment: carry all your documents and go through the interview process if necessary
Your Mexican visa is usually processed swiftly, within 2 to 10 business days.
Are there special visas for the 2026 World Cup?
During the 2022 World Cup in Qatar, the Qatari government introduced innovative measures like fan visas to facilitate the influx of spectators. However, the 2026 World Cup presents a unique scenario, with the United States, Mexico, and Canada jointly hosting the event. This raises the question: will similar provisions be implemented for 2026?
A major concern for fans planning to attend the matches is the complexity and difficulty of obtaining visas. This is particularly challenging in the case of the United States, which is known for its extensive processing times due to high demand and the influx of visitors and tourists.
The United States will host 78 matches, accounting for three-fourths of the entire event. Given that the World Cup occurs only once every four years, any planning mishaps could lead to significant disappointment and a long wait until 2030 for the next opportunity.
Fortunately, this issue has been recognized and is currently under active discussion between FIFA and the United States government. Will a special type of visa be introduced for FIFA fans? Only time will tell. Stay tuned to this article as we will be updating it regularly with the latest travel information.
