Securing U.S. and Canadian visas for the 2026 FIFA World Cup (June 11–July 19, 2026) is feasible for many fans but depends heavily on nationality, application timing, and immigration policies. Here’s a detailed guide based on current visa processing times and requirements:
What Visa Do You Need for the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
- United States:
- B-2 Tourist Visa: Required for non-Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries (e.g., India, Colombia, Nigeria).
- ESTA Authorization: For VWP nationals (e.g., UK, EU, Australia, Japan), valid for 90 days. Apply via the U.S. Electronic System for Travel Authorization .
- Canada:
- Visitor Visa: Required for visa-required countries (e.g., Pakistan, Algeria).
- eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization): For visa-exempt nationals (e.g., UK, EU), linked to your passport .
Table: Visa Requirements Overview
| Host Country | Visa-Exempt (eTA/ESTA) | Visa-Required |
|---|---|---|
| United States | 42 VWP countries (ESTA) | B-2 Visa (e.g., India, Colombia) |
| Canada | 50+ countries (eTA) | Visitor Visa (e.g., Iran, Nigeria) |
Who Can Likely Get a U.S. and Canada Tourist Visa?
- Likely to Succeed:
- U.S.: VWP nationals (ESTA processed in 72 hours) . Countries with wait times <100 days (e.g., UK, Germany, Japan) .
- Canada: Visa-exempt nationals (eTA approved in minutes). Countries with efficient processing (e.g., Brazil, Romania) .
- Might Succeed (Apply Immediately):
- U.S.: Countries with wait times of 100–200 days (e.g., South Africa, Indonesia) .
- Canada: Nations with moderate processing times (e.g., Philippines, Morocco) .
Countries Unlikely to Secure Visas in Time
- U.S. Challenges:
- Long Wait Times: Colombia (700 days), Turkey (560 days), India (430+ days) .
- Travel Bans: Fans from Iran, Afghanistan, Chad, Libya, and 11 other banned countries cannot enter, even with tickets .
- Canada Challenges:
- High-risk nations (e.g., Yemen, Somalia) face strict scrutiny and potential delays .
U.S. and Canada Tourist Visa Requirements
- Essential Documents:
- Valid passport (6+ months validity).
- Proof of funds (bank statements).
- Ties to home country (employment letter, property deeds).
- Match tickets or itinerary (recommended) .
- Special Cases:
- Criminal Records: Apply for a U.S. 212(d)(3) waiver or Canadian Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) .
How to Apply for Visas
- U.S. B-2 Visa Steps:
- Complete the DS-160 form online.
- Pay the $185 fee.
- Schedule an interview (book now; slots fill fast) .
- Canadian Visitor Visa Steps:
- Apply online via IRCC portal.
- Submit biometrics (if required).
- Processing: 30–60 days (varies by country).
Questions? Contact us here Contact or Consult us on Booking & Assessment
Tips to Boost Visa Approval Chances
- Apply Early: Start 12–18 months ahead (e.g., by late 2025) .
- Organize Documents: Use certified English translations for non-English materials (e.g., birth certificates) .
- Leverage Exemptions: Mexicans can enter Canada/U.S. with existing visas; Mexicans need no visa for Canada .
- Address Inadmissibility: Consult immigration lawyers for waivers if needed.
Key Takeaways for Visa Planning
- ✅ U.S. Priority: VWP nationals are safest; others apply immediately.
- ✅ Canada Advantage: Faster processing than U.S. in most cases.
- ❌ High-Risk Groups: Banned or long-wait nationals should explore Mexico matches.
- ⏰ Deadline: Submit applications before December 2025 to meet June 2026 deadlines .
Why the 2026 World Cup Is Unmissable
With 48 teams, 16 host cities, and cultural festivals across North America, this historic event is set to be the largest sporting celebration ever .
For official updates:
Act now: Visa delays could derail your trip—start your application today! click here to apply Booking & Assessment