2026 World Cup: United States Launches FIFA PASS Priority Visa System for Fans

United States authorities, in collaboration with FIFA, have launched a new priority visa appointment system for international fans ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, scheduled to kick off in just over four months.

The initiative, known as FIFA PASS (FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System), is designed to help ticket holding fans secure earlier visa interview appointments while maintaining standard screening and security procedures.

FIFA confirmed that the voluntary programme is open to individuals who have already purchased tickets for the 2026 World Cup and intend to travel to the United States. Eligible ticket holders will receive notifications through FIFA’s official ticketing platform in the coming days, while future buyers will be able to opt into the system during ticket purchase.

According to FIFA, the scheme is particularly beneficial to fans from countries where U.S. visa interview wait times are currently long.

Under the programme, applicants are required to log into their FIFA.com account and submit a FIFA PASS opt in form. They must then complete the regular U.S. visa application process by filling out the DS 160 form, uploading a recent photograph, and paying the applicable visa fee. During the visa interview scheduling stage, applicants must confirm they are FIFA ticket holders. If the information matches FIFA’s records, access to a priority appointment is granted.

The U.S. Department of State, however, stressed that participation in FIFA PASS does not guarantee visa approval, noting that all applicants must still meet eligibility requirements and undergo full security screening.

FIFA PASS is primarily targeted at travelers who are required to attend in person visa interviews. It is of limited relevance to citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries, who can travel to the United States for up to 90 days without a visa, provided they obtain ESTA authorization. These countries include most European Union states, the United Kingdom, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and several others.

Meanwhile, U.S. authorities are considering potential changes to the ESTA system, including a possible move to a mobile only application process and expanded data collection. These proposals are currently under public consultation until early February 2026.

The launch of FIFA PASS was first announced in November 2025 at the White House during an event attended by U.S. President Donald J. Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. It comes amid broader preparations for the tournament and ongoing visa policy adjustments.

Although the United States has suspended immigrant visa processing for 75 countries, the Department of State clarified that nonimmigrant visas, including tourist visas for World Cup fans, remain unaffected. However, supporters from countries under full or partial travel restrictions may still face limitations.

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will feature 48 teams and be hosted across the United States, Canada, and Mexico, with the U.S. staging 78 of the tournament’s 104 matches, including the final at MetLife Stadium in New Jersey.