In a major move for soccer fans worldwide, the U.S. government has unveiled a new program designed to make getting to the 2026 FIFA World Cup much easier.
Called the “FIFA Pass,” the initiative was announced by former President Donald Trump alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino and Secretary of State Marco Rubio. The program aims to expedite the often lengthy visa interview process for international fans who have purchased their match tickets directly through FIFA.
How the FIFA Pass Works
Ticket holders will gain access to a dedicated portal, enabling them to receive higher priority when scheduling their mandatory visa appointments at U.S. consulates worldwide. The administration is already preparing for the surge in applications, having deployed over 400 additional consular officers. They report that in about 80% of countries, appointment wait times are now under 60 days.
A Welcome But Not Guaranteed Ticket
While this is fantastic news for ticket holders, officials were clear on one important point: a match ticket does not guarantee entry into the United States. Secretary Rubio emphasized that all applicants will still undergo the full and standard visa vetting process to ensure security.
This program is a key part of the logistical planning for the massive, tri-nation event, which the U.S., Canada, and Mexico co-host. With an expected 5 to 10 million international visitors and 104 matches, the tournament is poised to be a historic economic and cultural boom.
Although some analysts have raised questions about fairness for non-ticket holders, the FIFA Pass is now the flagship visa initiative for the 2026 World Cup. For fans with tickets, the message is clear: apply for your visa right away and get ready for the beautiful game.
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