US Will Fast-Track Visas for Fans Travelling for 2026 World Cup

The United States government is making it easier for football fans to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup. A new visa fast-track system, called the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS), has been announced to help ticket holders get quicker visa interviews at US embassies and consulates worldwide.

President Donald Trump revealed the initiative at the White House, saying the move shows the administration’s commitment to making the 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Mexico, and Canada, a huge success. 

He was joined by FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem, and World Cup Task Force director Andrew Giuliani.

FIFA PASS allows ticket holders to schedule visa interviews faster, but it does not guarantee visa approval. “It guarantees you an expedited appointment. You’ll still go through the same vetting process as anyone else. The only difference here is that we’re moving you up in line,” Rubio explained.

To prepare for the rush of visitors, the US State Department has added more than 400 consular officers. Countries with big football followings, such as Brazil and Argentina, now see visa wait times drop from over a year to less than two months. 

Globally, about 80% of fans can now get an appointment in under 60 days.

The fast-track system is part of a broader effort with the US World Cup Task Force. With the tournament expanded to 48 teams, FIFA expects six to seven million ticket holders. The US will host 78 of the 104 matches across 11 cities, including New York, Los Angeles, Dallas, and Miami.

FIFA President Infantino called the initiative a major step toward making the World Cup the most accessible in history. “America welcomes the world. FIFA PASS is a very concrete example of that,” he said.