The 2026 FIFA World Cup is fast approaching, and millions of fans around the world are preparing to visit North America. With the United States, Mexico, and Canada jointly hosting the tournament, each country has its own entry rules and visa requirements.
Whether you’ll need a visa depends on your nationality, where you plan to travel, how long you’ll stay, and the purpose of your visit. Shamieh Law can help you understand these requirements and prepare for a successful trip.
Where Will the 2026 World Cup Be Held?
The United States, Mexico, and Canada will be hosting the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The event will be the first World Cup in history to feature three host nations. Each country will host matches in multiple stadiums.
Most of the matches will take place in the United States. Eleven U.S. cities will host matches, including Los Angeles, Miami, Atlanta, Seattle, and the New York City metropolitan area. Texas will also play a central role in the tournament by hosting matches in Houston and Dallas.
In Mexico, matches will be held in Guadalajara, Mexico City, and Monterrey. Canada will host the World Cup in Toronto and Vancouver.
What Visa Do I Need To Attend the World Cup?
The type of visa you need to attend the 2026 World Cup depends on your nationality, where you’re traveling from, your destination, and how long you plan to stay.
Travelers From Visa Waiver Program Countries
If your country participates in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) you may travel to the U.S. for tourism for up to 90 days without a visa, provided you meet all eligibility and admissibility requirements. However, you must apply for an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before boarding your flight.
Travelers from Non–Visa Waiver Countries
If your country is not part of the VWP, you’ll need to apply for a B-2 visitor visa to attend World Cup matches in the U.S. The process involves completing Form DS-160, paying the visa fee, and scheduling and attending an interview at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
You’ll also need to provide supporting documentation, such as proof of your return plans. Processing times vary, so begin your application several months in advance.
Dual-Country Travel (U.S., Mexico, and Canada)
If your World Cup itinerary includes matches in both the United States and another host country, you’ll need to satisfy each country’s separate entry requirements. A valid U.S. visa or ESTA authorization allows you to enter the U.S. but does not always grant entry into Mexico or Canada.
Canada requires a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization for most foreign visitors. U.S. citizens don’t need either and may travel freely to Canada with only a passport.
To visit Mexico, you likely need a visa unless you’re from a country listed as visa-exempt by the Mexican government. However, there’s an important exception: if you have a valid visa to attend matches in the United States or Canada, you typically won’t need a separate Mexican visa.
Special Visa Considerations for Workers, Media, and Volunteers
Not everyone traveling to the World Cup will do so as a spectator. Journalists, event staff, and athletes often require special visa classifications to enter and work legally in the United States.
Journalists and Broadcasters
If you are entering the U.S. to cover the World Cup as a journalist or broadcaster, you’ll likely need an I visa. This visa is designated for representatives of foreign media, press, or radio.
Event Staff and Contractors
If you’ve been hired to provide technical, operational, or logistical support for World Cup events, you may need a temporary work visa. One option is the H-2B non-agricultural worker visa. This allows foreign nationals to fill temporary positions in the U.S. when there aren’t enough available American workers.
Athletes and Team Personnel
If you’re traveling to the United States to compete or work as part of a World Cup team, you’ll generally need a P or O visa. The P-1A visa covers professional athletes or members of a team that has achieved international recognition. The O-1 visa applies to individuals with extraordinary ability in athletics or other fields.
Tips for a Smooth World Cup Travel Experience
Attending the World Cup requires careful planning, especially if you’re traveling internationally. Taking the right steps ahead of time can make for a more enjoyable experience.
Apply for Your Visa Early
U.S. Embassies and Consulates may face higher demand as the tournament approaches. Begin the application process as soon as possible to allow for interviews, processing, and unexpected delays.
Check Passport Validity
In many cases, your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date from the United States. There are exceptions for citizens of certain countries—if your country is part of that list, you’ll only need a valid passport for the time you plan to stay in the U.S.
Keep Documentation Handy
Have your match tickets, accommodation details, proof of return travel, and travel insurance ready when you arrive. Border officials may ask to see them when reviewing your entry documents.
Know Your Rights
Even with careful planning, unexpected issues can arise, such as a delayed visa, denied entry, or detainment. If your travel plans get disrupted, you have rights and options. Have a trusted immigration law firm’s contact information on hand before you leave for your trip so you can act quickly if problems occur.
Traveling to the World Cup? Let Shamieh Law Help You Prepare
If you’re planning to attend the World Cup, make sure your travel documents and visa status are in order before you depart. Shamieh Law is here to help you prepare for a memorable trip by explaining your entry requirements, preparing your paperwork, and addressing any concerns before they interfere with your travel plans.
With our support, you can focus on enjoying the world’s largest sporting event while we handle the legal details. Contact us online or call (469) 813-7332 to find out if you need a visa to attend the World Cup and learn how we can help you obtain one.
FAQs About World Cup 2026 Visa Requirements
Explore our answers to common questions about travel requirements for fans attending the 2026 World Cup from abroad.
How Long Can I Stay in the U.S. for the World Cup?
If you’re entering under the Visa Waiver Program, you can stay in the U.S. for up to 90 days. A B-2 tourist visa allows you to stay in the U.S. for up to six months, but your individual visa may have a shorter expiration time.
Can I Travel Between Mexico, the U.S., and Canada on One Visa?
Usually not. Each country requires its own visa or authorization. However, Mexico allows most travelers with valid U.S. or Canadian visas to enter without obtaining a separate Mexican visa.
What Happens if My Visa Is Denied Before the Event?
If your visa application is denied, you’ll receive a written notice explaining the reason for the denial. The notice will also indicate whether you can reapply or seek a waiver of ineligibility.
You can overcome some denials by submitting missing documents or demonstrating that your circumstances have changed. Other denials remain unless the Department of Homeland Security grants a waiver. No matter your situation, it’s worth contacting our Dallas immigration lawyers to determine your next steps.
Can Shamieh Law Help if I Encounter Legal Issues While Traveling for the World Cup?
Yes. Our firm assists travelers who experience legal complications while visiting the U.S. for the World Cup. Attorneys Ramez Shamieh and Jordan Weinberg are here to help people who face problems such as detainment, visa denial, or entry refusal during their trip.