In just a few short months, millions of dedicated soccer fans will travel to the United States to watch their country's national team compete in the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
From Boston to Atlanta and Los Angeles, 11 different American venues will be hosting matches throughout the tournament next summer. The highly anticipated final will be held in New York at MetLife Stadium on July 19.
Non-U.S. Citizens will need a visitor visa to attend games across the country, but they will be able to take advantage of several expedited processes put in place for the global tournament.
Are you planning to attend a game during the World Cup and need to obtain a U.S. Visa? We're here to help.
Here's a step-by-step guide to obtaining your visa for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, including rules, requirements and tips for the process.
MORE: How to book your travel accommodations for the 2026 World Cup with Booking.com.
Do I need a visa to travel to the United States for the World Cup?
Yes, the majority of non-U.S. Citizens will be required to have a valid visitor visa (B-1/B-2) in order to travel to the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but there are some exceptions and alternate processes.
Foreign visitors from any of the 42 countries who participate in the Visa Waiver Program can be cleared using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) instead.
Canadian and Bermudan passport holders do not require any additional authorization to seek entry into the U.S. As tourists.
Read below to determine which process is the best fit for you.
Visa Waiver Program, ESTA & tourist visas explained for World Cup fans
Obtaining a visitor visa can be confusing. Here's a breakdown of some key terms you should know to make the process easier.
Visa Waiver Program
The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of 90 days or less without obtaining a visa. You can find a list of VWP-designated countries here.
If you are a citizen of a VWP-designated country, you can apply for entry to the United States through ESTA rather than obtaining a visitor visa.
Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)
The ESTA is a web-based system operated by U.S. Customs and Border Protection that determines eligibility to travel to the United States. In order to travel without a visitor visa under the VWP, you must have a valid ESTA approval before boarding a U.S.-bound flight.
Visitor visas
If you're not a citizen of a country participating in the VWP, you will be required to obtain a B-1/B-2 visitor visa to enter the United States. This process takes longer, as it includes an online application and in-person interview. To qualify, applicants must prove a valid purpose for their visit, sufficient funds, and strong ties to their home country.
How to apply for a U.S. Visa or ESTA step-by-step
Here's a step-by-step guide for obtaining a U.S. Visitor visa or ESTA approval.
U.S. Visitor visa process
- Complete the online application Form DS-160 and print the confirmation page to bring to your interview.
- Schedule a visa interview at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the country where you live. Wait times for interview appointments may vary by location.
- Pay the non-refundable visa application fee ahead of your interview.
- Gather required documentation (Passport, Form DS-160 confirmation, application fee payment receipt and a valid photo of yourself).
- Attend your visa interview.
- If your visa is approved, it will be sent to you via mail.
ESTA approval process
If your home country participates in the Visa Waiver Program:
- Confirm that your passport meets the program requirements (Electronic passport or "E-Passport" with a chip)
- Complete the ESTA application online.
- Pay the authorization fee.
- Await your approval via email.
Travel tips for World Cup visitors: documents, timing & border entry FAQs
How soon should I apply for a visa for the World Cup?
Due to long wait times and potential delays, you should apply for a visitor visa as soon as possible. A priority system will be available for U.S. Visa applicants, but applying early is crucial to secure an interview slot before the tournament.
Citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries should still apply for ESTA approval ASAP, as delays or a denial would require a full visitor visa application.
Which travel documents will I need to enter the United States?
On top of a B-1/B-2 visitor visa or ESTA approval, travelers must show proof of a passport that is valid for six months beyond the period of their intended stay in the U.S.
Citizens of the countries listed here are exempt from the six-month rule and need only have a passport valid for their intended period of stay.
Is my visitor visa valid in Canada and Mexico?
No, a B-1/B-2 visitor visa or ESTA approval only guarantees entry to the United States. If you're looking to attend a World Cup match in Canada or Mexico, you will have to go through a separate visa process for that country.
Does my World Cup ticket guarantee that I will be issued a visa?
No, purchasing a ticket to a World Cup match does not guarantee you will be approved for a U.S. Visitor visa, or vice versa.
If I'm denied a visitor visa, will I get a refund for my World Cup ticket?
No, if you (the ticket holder) fail to obtain the necessary travel authorization or are denied entry to the U.S. For any reason, you will not be entitled to any form of compensation from FIFA ticketing.