FIFA announced a new initiative on November 17 to expedite visa interviews for international ticket holders attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the United States. The program, known as the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System or FIFA PASS, aims to facilitate travel for fans. However, U.S. travel bans may prevent citizens from two qualifying countries from attending the event.
The Fédération Internationale de Football Association (FIFA) shared details of the FIFA PASS in a press release, highlighting its role in providing priority scheduling for visa interviews. This system targets visitors who have purchased tickets for World Cup matches in the U.S. Ticket holders are advised to visit the State Department’s designated webpage, where they can select their passport country for specific visa information.
The initiative reflects close collaboration between FIFA and the White House Task Force, designated by President Donald Trump to manage World Cup-related matters. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio stated, “The United States is offering prioritized appointments so FIFA World Cup fans can complete their visa interviews and show they qualify. The kickoff is coming up, so now is the time to apply. We’re honored to host the greatest and safest World Cup in history.”
U.S. Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem added, “We’re making sure that people who come in on these tourist visas are coming in thoroughly vetted just like anyone who would travel here, and they would come and enjoy our country and then they would go home and in a timely manner. And we’re excited to partner with the President on creating memories for people around the world that will make them not just fall in love with the United States but also fall in love with the sport of soccer.”
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is scheduled for June and into July across North America, with the majority of matches in U.S. cities including Atlanta, Georgia; Inglewood, California; Arlington, Texas; East Rutherford, New Jersey; Seattle, Washington; Miami Gardens, Florida; and Kansas City, Missouri. Games will also occur in Canada and Mexico.
Separately, reports indicate that U.S. travel bans could block fans from two countries that have qualified for the tournament, potentially limiting attendance despite the new visa facilitations.