What Visa Do I Need for the 2026 FIFA World Cup? USA Visa Requirements Explained

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be the biggest sporting event in history, hosted for the first time across three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With more than 100 matches scheduled and millions of fans expected to travel, securing your entry into the U.S. will be one of the most important steps in planning your trip.

If you’re planning to cheer for your team in stadiums from Los Angeles to New York, you’ll need to understand the visa requirements well in advance. Visa processing times are already stretched, and costs are increasing. Here’s a clear breakdown of which visa you’ll need, how to apply, and why you should act quickly.

Which Visa Do You Need?

Visa Waiver Program (VWP) with ESTA

Travelers from more than 40 countries—including much of Europe, Australia, Japan, and South Korea—can visit the U.S. without a traditional visa through the Visa Waiver Program. Instead, you’ll need an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) approval before boarding your flight.

• Valid for stays of up to 90 days.
• Must apply online at least 72 hours before travel (though applying weeks ahead is safer).
• Costs about $21 USD.

B-2 Tourist Visa (or B-1/B-2)

If your country isn’t part of the Visa Waiver Program, you’ll need to apply for a B-2 tourist visa (or a combination B-1/B-2). This visa allows short-term travel for tourism, including attending sporting events.

• Standard stay: up to 6 months.
• Application involves an interview at a U.S. embassy or consulate.
• Processing times vary widely by country—sometimes over a year.

For fans from South America, Africa, and parts of Asia, the B-2 visa is the required path.

Visa Process Essentials

Applying for a U.S. visa involves several key steps:

1. Complete Form DS-160
   Fill out the application online, upload your photo, and pay the non-refundable fee (currently about $185 USD).
2. Schedule Your Interview
   Book an appointment at the U.S. embassy or consulate in your home country. Interview wait times can be very long, so book as early as possible.
3. Attend the Interview
   Bring:
   • Valid passport
   • DS-160 confirmation page
   • Proof of payment
   • Supporting documents (proof of employment, financial stability, ties to home country, itinerary, match tickets if available)
4. Provide English Translations
   Any non-English documents must be accompanied by certified translations.

If approved, your visa will be stamped into your passport, allowing you to travel to the U.S. for the tournament.

Why You Must Apply Now

Demand for U.S. visas is already overwhelming—and the World Cup will only increase it. Here’s why you shouldn’t wait:

• Extremely long interview wait times: In many countries, appointments are already booked more than 300–600 days out. For example, applicants in Colombia may wait over 18 months.
• No special World Cup visa: Unlike Russia (2018) or Qatar (2022), the U.S. will not issue a fast-track fan visa.
• Higher costs starting 2025: From October 1, 2025, a new $250 “visa integrity fee” will be added for non-VWP applicants, making total visa costs as high as $442 USD.
• Travel bans and political restrictions: Some countries face additional scrutiny or entry limits. Athletes may be exempt, but regular fans are not.

Bottom line: waiting until 2026 to apply could mean you miss the tournament.

Tips for a Smooth Application

• Start 6–12 months in advance. Don’t delay—demand will spike the closer it gets to June 2026.
• Double-check your documents. Bring proof of employment, property, or family ties that show you intend to return home.
• Monitor wait times online. The U.S. Department of State publishes real-time embassy processing estimates.
• Be confident and consistent. At your interview, answer questions honestly and clearly.
• Consider professional help. If you’re in a country with severe delays, an immigration attorney may help navigate the process.

Summary & Final Thought

To attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the U.S., your visa path depends on where you’re from:

• If your country is in the Visa Waiver Program → Apply online for ESTA.
• If not → Apply now for a B-2 tourist visa (processing could take over a year).

With long wait times, higher fees, and no special fan visa available, the smartest move is to start your application today. Don’t risk being stuck at home while the world comes together to celebrate the biggest tournament in football history.

👉 Check if your country is eligible for ESTA or begin your B-2 visa application immediately. The sooner you act, the better your chances of being in the stadium when history is made.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) About 2026 World Cup Visas

1. Do I need a visa to attend the 2026 World Cup in the U.S.?

It depends on your nationality. If your country is part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you only need to apply online for an ESTA. If your country is not part of the VWP, you’ll need a B-2 tourist visa.

2. What is ESTA, and how long is it valid?

ESTA stands for Electronic System for Travel Authorization. It is valid for two years (or until your passport expires, whichever comes first). Each visit allows you to stay in the U.S. for up to 90 days.

3. How much does a U.S. visa cost for the 2026 World Cup?

• ESTA: About $21 USD.
• B-2 tourist visa: $185 USD for the application fee.
• Starting October 1, 2025, a new $250 “visa integrity fee” will apply, making total costs for some applicants $400+ USD.

4. How long does it take to get a U.S. tourist visa?

Processing times vary by country. In many places, the wait for an interview appointment can be 300–600 days. That’s why applying at least 12 months in advance is strongly recommended.

5. Can I work or earn money in the U.S. on a B-2 tourist visa?

No. A B-2 visa is strictly for tourism and leisure activities such as attending the World Cup, sightseeing, or visiting family. Working or studying on this visa is not allowed.

6. Do children need a visa or ESTA for the World Cup?

Yes. Every traveler, including children and infants, must have their own ESTA or visa. Parents can apply on behalf of their children.

7. Can I use the same visa to visit Canada or Mexico during the World Cup?

No. A U.S. visa or ESTA only covers entry into the United States. Canada and Mexico each have their own visa requirements. If you plan to attend matches in all three countries, you must check visa rules for each.

8. What happens if my visa is denied?

If your visa application is denied, you cannot travel to the U.S. for the World Cup. You may reapply, but only after addressing the reason for denial. Consulting with an immigration professional may improve your chances in a second application.

9. Do I need to show my World Cup tickets when applying for a visa?

Not necessarily. Match tickets can strengthen your case, but they are not a visa requirement. What matters more is showing ties to your home country (job, family, property, finances).

10. When is the best time to apply for my U.S. visa?

Now. With long embassy wait times and higher fees coming in late 2025, the earlier you apply, the better your chances of being approved and ready to travel before kickoff in June 2026.

👉 Still unsure which visa you need? Start by checking if your country is on the Visa Waiver Program list. If not, begin your B-2 tourist visa application immediately—don’t risk missing the World Cup due to paperwork delays.