In a landmark announcement at the White House, the United States introduced the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS), a new initiative granting FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket holders access to prioritised visa interview appointments for travel to the U.S.
The event brought together President Donald J. Trump, Vice President JD Vance, U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio, U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem, key members of the White House Task Force, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino. Their joint unveiling of FIFA PASS marks one of the most significant operational milestones in the lead-up to the largest FIFA World Cup ever staged.
A Historic Step Toward the World’s Most Inclusive World Cup
FIFA President Gianni Infantino celebrated the initiative, emphasising the tournament’s global spirit:
“America welcomes the World. We have always said that this will be the greatest and most inclusive FIFA World Cup in history, and the FIFA PASS service is a very concrete example of that.”
Infantino extended gratitude to U.S. leadership for enabling a seamless entry process for fans traveling to the United States, highlighting the scale of preparations underway for next year’s kickoff.
A Streamlined Visa Process for Ticket Holders
FIFA PASS provides every fan holding a FIFA World Cup 2026 match ticket the opportunity to secure a prioritised U.S. visa interview, helping ensure smooth travel as millions prepare to visit North America.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio underscored the government’s commitment to welcoming fans:
“The United States is offering prioritized appointments so FIFA World Cup fans can complete their visa interviews and show they qualify. The kick-off is coming up, so now is the time to apply.”
Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem added:
“We’re making sure that people who come in on these tourist visas are thoroughly vetted… We’re excited to partner with the President on creating memories for people around the world.”
Ticket holders in countries where interview appointments are available are encouraged to apply immediately. Detailed instructions about the FIFA PASS program will be shared with fans in early 2026.
Additionally, travelers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries may be eligible to enter the U.S. using ESTA, offering an even simpler option for many international visitors.
A Global Event With Massive Economic Impact
The 2026 edition, co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States, is expected to welcome unprecedented numbers of fans, with more than six million tickets available across 16 host cities.
Earlier this year, a joint study by FIFA and the World Trade Organization outlined the tournament’s projected impact in the United States, including: 185,000 full-time jobs created, USD 30.5 billion in gross economic output, USD 17.2 billion added to U.S. GDP
Fans seeking visa or entry information for all three host countries can visit FIFA’s dedicated entry requirements page.
