FIFA World Cup Travel: Entry Requirements for Canada, USA, and Mexico for Fans

Fans from around the world are getting ready for a unique tournament held in Canada, the United States, and Mexico. This time, there is no single "Fan ID" for entry, so you’ll need to follow each country’s immigration rules. If you plan to follow your team through the knockout rounds, make sure to get the right FIFA World Cup Visas for each country.

Travel gets more complicated if you want to see qualifiers or group matches in more than one country. Since there isn’t a single tournament visa, being allowed into one country doesn’t mean you can enter the others. Plan ahead and apply early so you can watch the games instead of waiting at the border.

United States: The FIFA PASS and ESTA Systems

The United States has the strictest entry rules. Most visitors will need either the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) or a B1/B2 Visitor Visa.

If you’re using ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), check if your country is eligible on the official website and apply online. Do this several weeks before your trip to allow enough time for processing.

If you need a B1/B2 Visitor Visa, book an appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate, get your documents ready, and go to an in-person interview. Start this process months ahead, since appointments can fill up quickly.

To help with long wait times, the U.S. government created the FIFA PASS. If you have a confirmed ticket, you can use this system to get a faster visa interview appointment.

Canada: eTA and Temporary Resident Visas

Canada also has two main entry options. While some tournament staff don’t need work permits, fans still have to follow the usual tourist rules.

If you’re from a visa-exempt country and flying to Canada, you’ll need an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization). It costs $7 CAD and is usually approved quickly, but it’s best to apply a few weeks before your trip.

If you need a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), start your application early. When you state your reason for visiting, write "FIFA World Cup 26" to help with processing. Make sure you have all your documents ready before you apply.

Mexico: The Most Accessible Host

Mexico is the most flexible for international fans. If you already have valid travel documents for other major regions, you can often enter Mexico without extra paperwork.

When you arrive in Mexico, fill out the FMM tourist permit as directed. Keep a copy with your passport, and ensure your activities align with the allowed stay and purpose.

Mexico does not require a visa if you have a valid, multiple-entry visa from the USA, Canada, Japan, the UK, or the Schengen Area.

If you don’t qualify for a visa exemption, start your application for a standard visitor visa at a Mexican consulate right away. Collect all required documents and book your appointment as soon as possible.

The Final Blueprint for Fans

Check your passport’s expiration date now. It should be valid for at least six months after your last planned travel day. If it isn’t, renew your passport before you start any visa applications.

As the tournament gets closer, wait times will get longer. Submit your visa and travel authorization applications at least six to twelve months ahead. Once you have your documents, keep track of their progress and store copies for each country you’ll visit.

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