United States Joins UK, France and Germany Sees Significant Growth in ESTA Applications Before 2026 World Cup

Published on February 23, 2026

Image generated with Ai

The United States is gearing up to welcome millions of visitors for the FIFA World Cup 2026, and with that, there has been a significant surge in travel authorization applications. U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) reports a sharp increase in Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) applications, particularly between October and December 2025. During this period, more than one million ESTA approvals were granted for travelers from countries qualified for the competition, underscoring the global appeal of the event and the growing demand for smooth entry processes.

This rise in ESTA applications reflects not only the strength of international interest in the World Cup but also the broader trends in tourism to the U.S., especially as it prepares for this major global event. The smooth handling of ESTA applications, alongside the growing participation in Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP), is part of a strategy to facilitate easy access while maintaining rigorous security protocols.

The Surge in ESTA Applications: How It Reflects Growing Global Tourism

ESTA applications have risen substantially as the 2026 World Cup draws near. According to CBP, 1.6 million ESTA applications were submitted under the Visa Waiver Program in the first quarter of fiscal year 2026. This marks a significant increase in travel demand, particularly from countries whose national teams have qualified for the World Cup.

The United Kingdom, a longtime supporter of soccer, led the way with more than 425,000 approved ESTA applications. This number highlights the strong transatlantic relationship between the U.S. and the UK, as well as the passionate interest of British fans in international sporting events. Following the UK, France and Germany came in with more than 215,000 and 190,000 approved applications, respectively. These European soccer powerhouses, known for their historic success on the international stage, continue to send large numbers of fans to major sporting events, including the World Cup.

In Asia, Japan and South Korea showed notable growth, with nearly 180,000 and over 135,000 approved ESTA applications, respectively. This surge underscores the growing importance of the Asian market, with these countries contributing significantly to the international fan base. The increase in applications from these regions demonstrates a more global and diverse pool of travelers heading to the U.S. for the World Cup.

ESTA and Trusted Traveler Programs: Simplifying Access for Tourists

The surge in ESTA applications is part of a broader effort by the U.S. to streamline the entry process for international visitors while maintaining strong border security. As part of this, CBP has seen significant growth in its Trusted Traveler Programs (TTP), which provide expedited processing for pre-approved, low-risk travelers.

In the first quarter of fiscal year 2026, more than 656,000 applications were recorded for TTP programs like Global Entry, SENTRI, and NEXUS. These programs allow travelers to bypass long lines and experience faster processing at U.S. airports and land borders. Most applications came from U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents, but travelers from countries eligible for Global Entry, including Canada, have also shown strong interest in these expedited processing options.

For tourists planning to visit the U.S. for the World Cup, this is an important step to ensure smoother travel experiences, especially as airports and border crossings prepare for the large influx of visitors. By signing up for Trusted Traveler Programs or submitting their ESTA applications in advance, travelers can reduce wait times and enhance their overall travel experience.

The Impact on U.S. Tourism and Travel Infrastructure

The increase in ESTA applications and the adoption of Trusted Traveler Programs signal the growing importance of tourism in the U.S. With events like the FIFA World Cup 2026 and the 2028 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles on the horizon, the country is preparing for a surge in international visitors. These events will place significant strain on U.S. travel infrastructure, but the improvements in visa waiver processes, ESTA, and TTPs aim to make the experience smoother and more efficient for tourists.

For the tourism industry, this is a major opportunity. The World Cup is expected to attract millions of international visitors, and the tourism sector is ready to cater to this influx with a variety of accommodation, dining, and event offerings. Cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and others hosting World Cup events are preparing to showcase their culture, cuisine, and attractions to a global audience, further bolstering the U.S. tourism industry.

Looking Ahead: The Role of ESTA and ETIAS in the Future of U.S. Tourism

The introduction of the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) by the EU, which will require citizens from eligible countries, including the UK and Australia, to fill out an online form and pay a fee before entering the Schengen Area, is expected to change the landscape of global travel. While this system will not apply to visitors entering the U.S., the global trend toward enhanced border security and travel authorization will influence future travel protocols.

For travelers heading to the U.S. for the 2026 World Cup, early ESTA applications and Trusted Traveler Program enrollments will be key to ensuring a smooth journey. The upcoming World Cup, combined with other major events like the 2028 Summer Olympics, will push U.S. tourism to new heights. As travel grows, U.S. authorities are committed to improving efficiency while maintaining rigorous safety measures to handle the increase in international visitors.

Conclusion: Enhancing the Visitor Experience for 2026 and Beyond

With the 2026 World Cup on the horizon, the U.S. is preparing for a record-breaking influx of international visitors. The rise in ESTA applications and the growth of Trusted Traveler Programs reflect the country’s efforts to streamline the entry process while ensuring robust security. For travelers, these advancements promise a smoother, more efficient journey to one of the world’s most exciting global events. As the U.S. continues to grow as a leading destination for international tourism, these improvements in travel systems will play a key role in shaping the future of tourism and global mobility.