NAIROBI, Kenya – Fans heading to the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup will now be able to secure visas faster after the introduction of a new priority appointment system aimed at easing the expected travel rush.
The FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS) will allow match-ticket holders to book expedited visa interviews, reducing long wait times as North America prepares to host the largest FIFA World Cup in history.
The announcement was made during a high-level event at the White House attended by US President Donald Trump, FIFA President Gianni Infantino, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and members of the White House Task Force—signalling close coordination between FIFA and the US government.
Infantino said the initiative underscores FIFA’s commitment to inclusivity and smooth fan experiences.
“America welcomes the world. We have always said this will be the greatest and most inclusive FIFA World Cup in history—and the FIFA PASS service is a very concrete example of that,” he said.
He added that the US is preparing for unprecedented international turnout when the tournament kicks off next June.
Rubio urged fans with match tickets to apply early.
“The United States is offering prioritised appointments so FIFA World Cup fans can complete their visa interviews and show they qualify. The kick-off is coming up, so now is the time to apply,” he said, adding that the US aims to host the “greatest and safest” edition of the tournament.
A record-breaking tournament
The US will stage 78 of the more than 100 matches and handle the bulk of international arrivals.
More than six million tickets are expected to be available, making it the biggest edition in the event’s history.
Fans in countries with available interview slots are advised to book immediately via the US Department of State website, while citizens of Visa Waiver Program countries may qualify for visa-free entry using the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA).
Economic windfall
Earlier studies by FIFA and the World Trade Organisation (WTO) project that the tournament will generate massive economic gains for North America, including:
- 185,000 full-time jobs
- $30.5 billion (Sh3.9 trillion) in economic output
- $17.2 billion (Sh2.2 trillion) contribution to the US GDP
The FIFA PASS system is expected to play a key role in managing the influx of international fans as the continent gears up for a historic World Cup.
