Attention Football Fans: US Shortens Visa Wait Times for 2026 World Cup Ticket-Holders – Act Fast

Published on December 4, 2025

As the excitement builds for World Cup 2026 in the United States, global football fans have received a welcome boost. The United States government, in collaboration with FIFA, has introduced the FIFA PASS — a fast‑track system that grants priority visa‑interview appointments to fans holding tickets for the tournament. Under this scheme, visa waits are slashed dramatically — now, most applicants can schedule an appointment in roughly 60 days or less.

This marks a significant shift from the pre‑World Cup visa backlog that had left many prospective fans facing months‑long delays. By promising expedited appointments for ticket‑holders, the US aims to welcome millions of international supporters who plan to travel for the football festival.

What Is FIFA PASS and How It Works

FIFA PASS is operated by the U.S. Department of State in partnership with FIFA. Fans who have purchased tickets for matches hosted in the US will access a special “FIFA portal” to apply for a visa interview. Once they register their ticket and submit required forms, their application is granted priority over standard visa‑seekers.

To support the anticipated surge in applications, the Department of State has also deployed more than 400 additional consular officers globally. This staffing boost is expected to reduce visa wait times across much of the world, particularly in football‑loving nations outside the Visa Waiver Program.

Despite the fast‑tracked scheduling, normal security checks and vetting protocols remain in force. Holding a ticket and obtaining a quick appointment does not guarantee visa approval.

What It Means for Fans, Travel, and Tourism

For passionate fans dreaming of witnessing World Cup action live — the new visa regime brings renewed hope. The 48‑team tournament, co‑hosted across the US, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to draw 5 to 10 million international visitors.

Thanks to FIFA PASS, many who previously feared missing out due to visa delays can now plan early. Travel agencies, airlines, and tourism sectors may also see a surge, as long‑haul fan traffic flows toward stadium cities across the US.

For fans from countries without Visa Waiver privileges — those who need a B1/B2 visitor visa — now is the time to act. Early ticket purchase, immediate registration on the FIFA portal, and prompt submission of documents could make all the difference.

What Remains Important: Not Just the Visa, but Everything After

It is vital to remember: expedited visa appointment does not equal visa approval. Applicants will still go through standard background checks. The visa must be granted before travel begins.

Also, booking travel logistics — flight tickets, accommodation, ground transport — remains crucial, especially as demand is expected to spike. Given the scale of the event, availability could be constrained or inflated in price.

Final Thought: For Travellers, a Real Shot at World Cup Dreams

For many football fans around the world, the announcement of FIFA PASS offers more than convenience — it offers hope. The prospect of attending a live World Cup match in an American stadium now seems attainable, not just a distant dream. If you plan to travel, act soon: buy a ticket, register via FIFA PASS, and submit your visa application. You may still face vetting — but at least you’ll be in the queue, with a date.

If you like, I can extract current visa‑wait times for a few major countries (by consulate) and build a forecast for which nations look most likely to secure visas in time for the World Cup.