Michigan Joins Ohio, North Carolina, Washington, Texas, Illinois, and Others to Skyrocket US Tourism by Welcoming Travelers with an Exclusive Pass for a Limited Time Next Year: Everything You Need to Know

Published on December 25, 2025

Michigan, alongside Ohio, North Carolina, Washington, Texas, Illinois, and others, will boost U.S. tourism in 2026 by welcoming travelers with an exclusive FIFA Pass for a limited time, making visa processing quicker and easier. This initiative, launched in anticipation of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, offers international fans the chance to streamline their travel plans by securing priority scheduling for U.S. visa interviews. The FIFA Pass drastically reduces wait times, allowing visitors to plan their trips with greater ease and certainty. By offering this exclusive benefit, these states aim to accommodate the surge of tourists expected during the World Cup, ensuring that fans can focus on enjoying the matches and the rich cultural experiences these states have to offer. Whether you’re attending the World Cup matches in Texas, exploring Michigan’s scenic beauty, or immersing yourself in the vibrant cities of Illinois and Washington, this initiative provides an efficient pathway for international visitors to experience the best of the U.S. next year.

Michigan — Sports & World Cup Travel Base

Though Michigan is not hosting any World Cup matches, it remains a popular travel hub. Major airports like Detroit Metropolitan Airport allow international visitors to fly into Michigan before heading to other match cities. The FIFA Pass offers priority scheduling for visa interviews, making the process smoother for visitors. Once in Michigan, tourists can explore its cultural attractions, beautiful landscapes, and cities like Detroit and Grand Rapids.

Ohio — Easy Access to World Cup Travel

Ohio isn’t hosting World Cup matches, but it’s a crucial entry point for international travelers. With major airports like Cleveland Hopkins and Columbus International, Ohio offers easy access to other states hosting matches. The FIFA Pass helps international ticket holders secure faster visa interview appointments. Once approved, tourists can explore Ohio’s attractions like the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame or enjoy the state’s arts and culture scene.

North Carolina — A Tourist & Travel Hub

North Carolina is not hosting any World Cup matches, but it remains an attractive destination for international tourists. Its scenic beauty, cultural cities like Charlotte, and beaches make it an appealing place to visit. With the FIFA Pass, tourists can get quicker visa appointment scheduling, reducing wait times. Once in North Carolina, visitors can enjoy outdoor activities, historical sites, and vibrant urban life.

Washington — Northwest World Cup & Travel Gateway

Washington is an official host state for the 2026 World Cup, with Seattle as a primary venue. International visitors will benefit from the FIFA Pass by securing priority visa interviews. After visa approval, they can explore Seattle’s landmarks like the Space Needle and Pike Place Market. Additionally, Washington’s natural beauty, including its forests and coastlines, makes it a prime destination for tourists beyond the World Cup matches.

Texas — A Major World Cup Destination

Texas will host several World Cup matches, with venues like AT&T Stadium in Arlington. The FIFA Pass allows international visitors to secure priority visa interview scheduling, significantly reducing wait times. After getting a visa approval, tourists can explore Texas’ cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas, and attend World Cup matches. Texas offers a mix of sports, culture, and recreational activities, making it a perfect destination for soccer fans during the tournament.

Illinois — Gateway to World Cup Fans

While Chicago is not hosting 2026 World Cup matches, Illinois serves as a major hub for international visitors. Fans can use the FIFA Pass for priority visa appointment scheduling to reduce wait times. Once their visa is approved, visitors can explore Chicago’s famous landmarks, such as Millennium Park and the Art Institute. Illinois can also act as a transit hub for those traveling to nearby match cities.

General Process for Using FIFA Pass & Traveling to These States

The FIFA Pass system allows World Cup ticket holders from eligible countries to benefit from priority visa appointment scheduling. By using the FIFA Pass, travelers can secure an interview slot within six to eight weeks, significantly reducing wait times compared to regular visa processing. Once their visa is approved, visitors are free to travel to any U.S. state, including the key destinations mentioned above, to attend World Cup matches and enjoy the various tourist attractions each state has to offer.

Michigan, alongside Ohio, North Carolina, Washington, Texas, Illinois, and others, will boost U.S. tourism in 2026 by welcoming travelers with an exclusive FIFA Pass for a limited time, making visa processing quicker and easier.

Conclusion

Michigan, along with Ohio, North Carolina, Washington, Texas, Illinois, and other states, is set to significantly boost U.S. tourism in 2026 by welcoming international travelers with the exclusive FIFA Pass for a limited time. This innovative program not only makes visa processing quicker and easier but also ensures a smoother travel experience for World Cup fans from around the world. By offering priority scheduling for visa interviews, these states are effectively reducing wait times and facilitating faster access for visitors eager to attend the FIFA World Cup and explore the many cultural and tourist attractions the U.S. has to offer. With this initiative, travelers can enjoy both the thrill of the tournament and the rich experiences these states provide, making it a win-win for tourism in 2026.