The United States has introduced the FIFA PASS, a prioritized visa appointment system for international ticket holders attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Announced by President Donald Trump alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the initiative aims to expedite entry for millions of fans. Officials emphasized that while appointments are faster, standard security vetting remains unchanged.
On November 18, 2025, President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino announced the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System, known as FIFA PASS, during a White House press event. This program allows international fans with tickets to any of the 78 matches hosted in the US to secure expedited visa interview appointments for B-2 tourist visas.
Infantino described the measure as a key step toward inclusivity, stating, “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.” Secretary of State Marco Rubio added, “The United States is offering prioritized appointments so FIFA World Cup fans can complete their visa interviews and show they qualify.” Trump urged applicants to submit forms immediately, noting the tournament's proximity.
Typical wait times for visa interviews range from less than a month to 16.5 months, but FIFA PASS aims to reduce this to six to eight weeks for eligible fans. It applies to ticket holders purchasing through FIFA.com/tickets, though it does not guarantee visa approval—full vetting, including DS-160 forms and fees, is required. Travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries, such as Japan, Australia, and European nations, still need ESTA authorization.
The 2026 World Cup, co-hosted by the US, Canada, and Mexico, features 104 matches across 16 cities and expands to 48 teams, with 34 nations already qualified. As of October, 1 million tickets were sold, with over 6 million available. The draw is set for December 5 in Washington. However, concerns linger as Trump reiterated threats to relocate matches from cities like Seattle and Boston over safety and political issues, calling Seattle's mayor-elect a "very liberal slash communist mayor."
This announcement coincides with other preparations, including the opening of a volunteer center in Dallas on the same day, expecting 15,000 applicants for 6,100 roles in North Texas.
