U.S. Government Plans to Expedite Visa Appointments For World Cup Ticket Holders

The federal government has announced that it will speed up visa appointments for World Cup ticket holders abroad, making it easier for fans to secure a visa and travel to the United States for the tournament.

On November 17, President Trump said the Department of State is currently working on implementing the “FIFA Prioritized Appointment Scheduling System” at embassies and consular offices. Once in place, the president said this “will allow World Cup ticket-holders with long wait times to opt with FIFA for a prioritized interview.”

State Department sends over 400 additional consular officers to implement FIFA Pass 

The State Department has not released a public statement about how it will implement its “FIFA Pass.” However, Secretary of State Marco Rubio said at the event that the federal agency has sent over 400 more consular officers to process cases. According to Secretary Rubio, this increase in staff will help embassies and consulates decrease wait times for ticket holders.

At the event, Secretary Rubio said that “now, in more than 80% of the world, the wait time for a visa is 60 days or less.” Ana Gabriela Urizar, immigration attorney at Manifest Law, says applicants should still file early to ensure they can enter the U.S. legally.

“For anyone planning to travel to the United States to watch a World Cup match, my biggest recommendation is to prepare early. Visa demand will be extremely high, and consulates may face long wait times. Apply as soon as possible, make sure your documents are complete, and be ready to show strong ties to your home country.”

Trump Administration recommends filing early

The DOS has already released guidance for FIFA ticket holders applying for a U.S. visa. At U.S. entry points, noncitizens must remember to bring their foreign passports and other travel documents. “Your ticket is not a visa,” Secretary Rubio said at the event. So while it may grant you an expedited appointment at the consular office, it should not be used as an entry ticket to the U.S.

If you’re a citizen from one of the 42 countries under the Visa Waiver Program, you do not need to request a consular appointment to enter the U.S. as a tourist. You can verify your eligibility by visiting the State Department’s VWP Overview. If you qualify for a visa waiver, you must apply for the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) before traveling.

Bermudian and Canadian citizens do not need to apply for a B-1/B-2 visa to enter the U.S. as tourists. But they should bring their passports to show Border Protection officers at U.S. entry points.

Traveling to the U.S. to watch the 2026 World Cup? Our immigration lawyers can help you file and prepare for your consular appointment. Request an appointment with one of our attorneys today.