2026 World Cup Travel To The U.S. – Visas, ESTA & FIFA PASS – Do It The Right Way

We handle the immigration details — so you can focus on your trip and be in your seat on game day.

The 2026 World Cup is hosted across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico. That “three-country spread” creates real visa and re-entry traps. We help you plan your entry thoroughly, apply correctly, and travel confidently.

Contact our dedicated Miami lawyers at Figueroa-Contreras Law Group to find out how we can help you with your visa! Call (305) 501-4141 or reach out to us online.

The #1 Myth: There is NO “World Cup Visa”
Many fans assume a ticket, a “Fan ID,” or a tournament credential works like a visa. For the 2026 World Cup, you must qualify under normal U.S. immigration rules—and a ticket does not guarantee visa approval or entry.
What you generally need to enter the U.S. for matches:
  • A valid passport (CBP commonly expects at least 6 months validity beyond your intended stay).
  • ESTA (Visa Waiver Program) if eligible -OR- a B-1/B-2 visitor visa if not.
Bottom line: The U.S. will welcome legitimate travelers—but you still have to meet the requirements and prove you’re coming temporarily and will leave after your trip.

Which Option Applies to You?

Option A: ESTA (Visa Waiver)

If you're from a Visa Waiver country, you may be able to travel with ESTA instead of getting a visa. This program includes 42 participating countries.

Best for: Short trips, simple itineraries, travelers with clean immigration history.
Option B: B-1/B-2 Vistor Visa

If you''re not ESTA -eligible are not, —or ESTA is denied — you'll need a B-1/B-2 visitor visa for tourism.

Important: B visas are judged under strict "nonimmigrant intent" standards (you must show strong ties abroad - work, family, property, travel history).

How Figueroa- Contreras Law Group Helps World Cup Travelers

  • ESTA vs. B-1/B-2 eligibility screening
  • Strategy for tough cases (prior denials)
  • FIFA PASS guidance + scheduling setup
  • Evidence planning for non-immigrant intent
  • Trip planning to prevent re-entry clock issues
  • "Travel-ready" prep so you arrive calm

Contact our dedicated Miami lawyers at Figueroa-Contreras Law Group to find out how we can help you with your visa! Call (305) 501-4141 or reach out to us online.

FIFA PASS: Fast Interview Scheduling

Speeds up the interview - does not guarantee approval

To address long visa appointment backlogs, the Department of State and FIFA launched the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS). It's a scheduling mechanism, not a special visa category.

Who qualifies?

Generally, ticket holders who purchased tickets directly from FIFA. Secondary market tickets may not qualify unless properly transferred through FIFA's system.

How it works (Plain English)
  1. 1 Opt in through your FIFA account.
  2. 2 Complete DS-160 and pay the fee.
  3. 3 When scheduling, indicate you're a FIFA ticket holder so the system can match your data and show expedited slots.

Smart Timing: If you already have an appointment before May 32st, 2026, keep it. If your date is after kickoff, FIFA PASS is your solution.

The 3-Country Itinerary Trap

U.S + Canada + Mexico

A major 2026 World Cup problem: fans travel U.S. - Canada - Mexico - U.S. and assume they get a fresh 90 days each time. Often that's wrong.

The Reality: Travel to Canada or Mexico can keep the original ESTA admission "clock" running, creating accidental overstays or re-entry denials.

What we do: We map your itinerary, calculate risk, and structure travel dates to keep you admissible- especially if you're attending matches in multiple host countries.

Don't Get Stuck at the Boarder

Crossing boarders incorrectly can invalidate your status.

Presidential Proclamation 10998

Can block spectators from certain countries.

Proclamation 10988 poses a major barrier for fans from affected regions, with full or partial suspensions that can prohibit tourist visa issuance and entry.

Importantant Nuance: Players/staff may be exempt, but spectators generally are not - even when a national team is participating.

Check Your Eligibility If you have dual nationality, call us.

Port-of-Entry Risks

Even with ESTA or a visa, admission is decided at the airport. We help you prepare for increased scrutiny - especially regarding social media and marijuana-related inadmissibility.

Clear Purpose

Documentation of your match tickets and tourism plans.

Return Plans

Proof of ties to home and intent to depart.

Interview Prep

"What to say/What not to say" preparation to avoid secondary inspection.

Quick FAQ

Do World Cup ticket holders automatically get a visa?
No. A ticket does not guarantee a visa or entry. You must meet standard immigration requirements.
Is FIFA PASS a special visa?
No—FIFA PASS speeds interview scheduling for eligible ticket holders, but it does not guarantee approval.
Can I do U.S. + Canada + Mexico matches on ESTA and “reset” my stay?
Not necessarily. Canada/Mexico side trips can keep your original admission time running, which can create re-entry issues if you exceed 90 days total.
What if my country is affected by President Trump’s travel and visa bans?
Spectators from certain countries may be prohibited from obtaining tourist visas/entry under the Proclamation’s full or partial suspensions. Our law firm carefully monitors this list and will advise what options are available.

To schedule a confidential case evaluation with one of our experienced attorneys, please contact us at (305) 501-4141 or fill out our online form.

Your Future. Your Freedom. Our Focus.

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