Traveling to FIFA World Cup 2026? Here’s What Indian Fans Need to Know About US, Canada, and Mexico Visas

Published on December 9, 2025

As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, Indian football fans are eagerly planning their trips to North America, where the tournament will be hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico. The thrill of attending this prestigious event, with matches spread across three countries, brings a unique opportunity for international travel and cultural experiences. However, there is a hidden complexity in the visa process that could make or break the travel plans of many fans. Navigating through the visa requirements for the U.S., Canada, and Mexico is not as simple as it seems, and here’s why Indian fans must act swiftly.

Visa Requirements for U.S., Canada, and Mexico: A Multi-Country Puzzle for Fans

For Indian fans looking to attend the 2026 World Cup, a multi-country journey will likely be on the cards, as they aim to follow the tournament across multiple host cities in the United States, Canada, and Mexico. While this offers exciting prospects for football lovers, the visa process poses a major challenge.

In the United States, Indian nationals are required to obtain a visitor visa (B1/B2) to attend the World Cup matches. The U.S. government has introduced a special visa scheduling system for ticket holders under the FIFA Pass, which prioritizes applicants with confirmed tickets for the event. This initiative aims to alleviate the heavy demand for visas in the lead-up to the tournament. According to the U.S. Department of State, the FIFA Pass allows ticket holders to secure earlier interview slots for visa processing, but it’s important to note that this system does not guarantee approval. Fans will still need to meet the necessary visa requirements, including providing proof of funds, travel plans, and ties to their home country.

For Canada, the process is similarly straightforward but still requires a visa. Indian passport holders must apply for either a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) depending on the method of travel. This is critical to note for Indian fans wishing to explore Canadian cities like Vancouver or Toronto during the World Cup. The Canadian immigration authorities have not announced any specific changes to the usual visa protocols for the tournament. However, they do urge travelers to apply well in advance to ensure processing before the World Cup. Canada’s visitor visa process requires submission of a completed application, biometric data, and other supporting documents.

Mexico, the third host country, presents a different set of challenges for Indian fans. Indian passport holders generally require a visa to enter Mexico, unless they hold a valid visa or residency permit from the United States, Canada, or a Schengen Area country. This means that Indian fans who already have a valid U.S. or Canadian visa can travel to Mexico without needing a separate Mexican visa. However, if they do not hold these visas, they will have to apply for a tourist visa directly through Mexican consulates. Given the possibility of travel between the U.S., Canada, and Mexico during the tournament, this visa rule is particularly important for planning smooth travel across borders.

Why Early Visa Applications Are a Must

For fans traveling to multiple countries, the logistics of visa applications must not be overlooked. The FIFA Pass priority scheduling system for U.S. visas offers hope, but the reality is that visa approvals are subject to stringent requirements. Applicants must be prepared for the usual visa interview process, which involves providing documents such as financial proof, travel details, and an explanation of the purpose of their visit.

Canadian and Mexican visa processes are more standard, but fans should not underestimate the time required for processing. For example, U.S. visa appointments can take months to schedule, especially given the surge in visa applications expected as the tournament draws nearer. To avoid delays, Indian fans are advised to apply for their visas well ahead of time—preferably as soon as World Cup tickets are secured.

Fans should also be aware that if any part of their visa application is incomplete or incorrectly submitted, it could lead to rejections or delays, jeopardizing their travel plans. By applying early, fans ensure they have ample time to address any issues that may arise with their visa applications.

The Role of U.S. Visas in Cross-Border Travel During the Tournament

Given that the U.S. will host the majority of the World Cup matches, the U.S. visa process plays a pivotal role in facilitating cross-border travel for fans. Fans traveling to other World Cup host cities in Canada or Mexico must still ensure that they have valid U.S. visas if they intend to pass through these countries without additional visa requirements.

It’s crucial for Indian travelers to be aware of the nuances of this arrangement. While Mexico and Canada have relaxed entry requirements for travelers with valid U.S. visas, this does not mean that entry will automatically be granted. Travelers must meet all other entry conditions, including health and safety requirements, to be allowed entry.

What’s Next for Indian Fans Planning Their Journey to the 2026 World Cup

As excitement builds for the 2026 World Cup, Indian fans are faced with the challenge of securing the right visas to attend the tournament across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. The three-country nature of the event adds an extra layer of complexity to the visa process, making it essential for fans to be proactive in their preparations.

By understanding the visa requirements for each host country and applying early, fans can secure their spots at the event and ensure that their travel plans go smoothly. The FIFA Pass for the U.S. provides an exciting opportunity to streamline the visa process, but as always, it is important to remember that final approval depends on meeting all necessary visa requirements.

For those planning to travel between the three host countries, careful attention must be paid to Mexico’s visa rules and the need for a U.S. visa. Overall, fans need to act quickly, submit their applications early, and follow all the necessary steps to avoid any setbacks in their travel plans.