In a significant move to streamline visa processes for international football fans, FIFA and the United States government have introduced a priority visa appointment system for ticket holders of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. This initiative, announced on Monday, follows a meeting between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and US President Donald Trump. The new FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA Pass) aims to simplify visa acquisition, ensuring smoother entry for global fans and enhancing attendance at the tournament. The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States across 16 cities, will feature 48 teams, marking an expansion from the traditional 32-team format. Despite concerns over stricter US immigration policies under the Trump administration, ticket sales have remained robust, with over a million tickets sold during FIFA’s initial rollout in October. Infantino emphasized the US’s commitment to welcoming fans worldwide, stating, ‘Football unites the world, and we are preparing to ensure this tournament reflects that spirit.’ US Secretary of State Marco Rubio echoed this sentiment, highlighting the prioritization of visa interviews to facilitate fan participation in what is anticipated to be the ‘greatest and safest World Cup in history.’
Priority US visa appointments announced for Fifa World Cup ticket holders
