How to Get a Visa for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the USA

Everything You Need to Know to Secure Your Spot at the Biggest Sporting Event in History

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to be the most spectacular sporting event ever, hosted across 11 cities in the United States, alongside matches in Canada and Mexico. With a record-breaking 48 teams and an expected 6 million fans from Asia, Latin America, Africa, Europe, and beyond, this World Cup promises to be a global celebration of football, culture, and inclusivity.

However, many fans, particularly those from non-European countries, face challenges with stringent U.S. immigration laws and “unacceptably high” visa wait times. This guide will help you navigate the visa process and ensure you don’t miss out on the action.

2026 World Cup Illustration

1. Do You Need a Visa to Travel to the USA?

Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and ESTA

  • Citizens of 40+ countries, including the UK, EU nations, Japan, and Australia, can travel to the U.S. for tourism under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP).
  • They must apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), which allows them to stay for up to 90 days.
  • ESTA applications are processed online and are typically approved within 72 hours.

B-2 Tourist Visa

  • Fans from countries not eligible for ESTA will need to apply for a B-2 Tourist Visa.
  • This includes Colombia, Nigeria, India, and many other nations expected to send thousands of football fans to the World Cup.
  • Visa wait times for interviews at U.S. embassies and consulates in these countries currently exceed 300 days.

2. Challenges Facing World Cup Fans

  • High Demand: An estimated 6 million fans are expected to travel to North America for the World Cup.
  • Long Wait Times: In Colombia, Nigeria, and India, wait times for a U.S. visa interview are over 300 days.
  • No Fast-Track Process: Unlike Russia (2018) and Qatar (2022), the U.S. has no plans to fast-track visa applications for World Cup ticket holders.

3. Applying for a U.S. B-2 Tourist Visa

  1. Complete the DS-160 Form: Visit the Consular Electronic Application Center to complete the form and pay the $185 visa application fee.
  2. Schedule a Visa Interview: Book an appointment at your nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Apply at least 6-12 months in advance.
  3. Attend the Visa Interview: Bring required documents, including a valid passport, DS-160 confirmation page, visa fee receipt, and proof of ties to your home country.
  4. Receive Your Visa: If approved, your passport will be stamped with the B-2 Visa.

4. Do You Need Certified Translations?

When applying for a U.S. visa, USCIS (United States Citizenship and Immigration Services) requires certified English translations for any non-English documents submitted with your application.

Examples of Required Translations:

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5. Tips for a Successful Visa Application

Getting a U.S. visa for the 2026 FIFA World Cup can be challenging, but following these tips will help you improve your chances of approval:

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Apply Early

Wait times for visa interviews are long, and the U.S. will not prioritize soccer fans. Start your application 6-12 months in advance to avoid missing out.

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Be Honest and Confident

During your visa interview, answer questions truthfully and confidently. U.S. officers value transparency, and any inconsistency could lead to a visa denial.

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Organize Your Documents

Neatly arrange all required documents in a folder. This will help you present your case efficiently and avoid unnecessary delays.

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Check Passport Validity

Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates. Renew it in advance if necessary to avoid complications.

Conclusion

The 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be an unforgettable event, but U.S. visa requirements are strict. Applying early and ensuring your documents are accurate is crucial.

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