U.S. offers expedited visa interviews for World Cup ticketholders
FIFA and the White House announced a system Monday that will speed up the visa process for ticket holders wishing to attend 2026 World Cup matches in the United States.
FIFA’s Priority Appointment Scheduling System – or “FIFA PASS” – will help World Cup ticket holders secure a priority visa interview.
“America welcomes the world,” FIFA President Gianni Infantino said in a statement. “We have always said that this will be the biggest and most inclusive FIFA World Cup in history – and the FIFA Pass service is a very concrete example of that.”
Tournament stakeholders had already expressed their concerns on immigration rules and long visa wait times implemented by the current administration that could affect the international event.
Fans from around the world will travel to the biggest World Cup in its history, with the tournament expanding from 32 to 48 teams. The United States will host 78 matches in 11 different cities across the country. Gaming is expected to contribute nearly $3.75 billion to the country’s economy.
FIFA is encouraging fans traveling for football’s biggest event to immediately request a visa interview appointment through its website. website.
“The United States is offering priority appointments so that FIFA World Cup fans can complete their visa interviews and prove they are qualified,” Secretary of State Marco Rubio said. “Kick-off is coming, so now is the time to apply.”
