FIFA World Cup. Phoyo: Erman Gunes / Shutterstock.com The United States has unveiled additional travel guidance and visa measures for international fans planning to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup, encouraging supporters to begin the visa process as early as possible.
In a new statement tied to preparations for the tournament, the U.S. Department of State confirmed it will waive visa bond requirements for qualifying national team delegations, including players, coaches, and support staff who meet all entry requirements.
The waiver will also apply to certain fans from participating countries who purchased official World Cup tickets and opted into the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System, known as FIFA PASS, by April 15, 2026.
The administration said the goal is to simplify travel for legitimate visitors while maintaining strict national security and public safety standards throughout the event.
“This will be a once in a lifetime opportunity to showcase the beauty and the greatness of America,” said Donald Trump. “And we can’t wait to welcome soccer fans from all over the globe.”
Officials are also urging fans who still need visas to apply immediately due to expected high demand ahead of the tournament.
“If you need a U.S. visa and don’t have one yet, now is the time to apply,” the State Department said in updated travel guidance.
Under the current rules, most foreign visitors attending the tournament will need passports valid for at least six months beyond their intended stay in the United States unless they come from exempt countries.
Travelers from the 42 nations participating in the Visa Waiver Program can instead apply through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization, commonly known as ESTA.
Meanwhile, fans from countries outside the waiver program will generally need a B1/B2 visitor visa to enter the United States for the tournament.
Canadian and Bermudan passport holders will not require additional authorization to enter as tourists.
The FIFA PASS system is intended to help eligible ticket holders secure visa interview appointments before the World Cup begins, reducing the risk of long processing delays closer to kickoff.
The United States will co-host the expanded 48-team tournament alongside Canada and Mexico, with millions of international visitors expected across North America during the competition.