FIFA World Cup 2026™: Final Travel Readiness Guide for Visitors Entering the U.S.

By Ellie Langroodi, Senior Attorney, and Anne Nakamura, Managing Attorney  

The FIFA World Cup 2026™ will bring millions of international travelers to the U.S., Canada and Mexico beginning in June. With travel volumes expected to surge and the kickoff fast approaching, visitors should prepare early to avoid delays, disruptions or denied boarding. 

Ellie Langroodi, Senior Attorney, and Anne Nakamura, Managing Attorney, share their guidance on how travelers should prepare and what to consider for a smoother travel experience. 

Disclaimer: This post is provided for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration and travel requirements may change and vary based on individual circumstances. Travelers should consult official government resources or qualified legal counsel for advice specific to their situation.

Understanding U.S. Entry Requirements

Travelers should confirm the correct travel authorization well before departure. Requirements vary by nationality, and knowing which category you fall into is essential for a smooth arrival. 

Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Travelers 

Individuals from VWP countries may enter the U.S. without a traditional visa if they: 

• Hold an approved (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) ESTA before travel. 
• Link their ESTA to their current, valid passport. 
• Limited their stay to 90 days for tourism or short visits. 
• Confirm eligibility via the U.S. Department of State’s list of eligible nationalities. 

Non‑VWP Travelers 

Travelers who are not eligible for the VWP must enter the U.S. with a B-1/B-2 visitor visa. 

Even with a valid visa, entry is not guaranteed. All travelers remain subject to inspection by U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) upon arrival. 

FIFA PASS: Priority Visa Appointments for Ticket Holders  

The U.S. Department of State created the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS) for World Cup visitors who need a B‑1/B‑2 visa.  

The FIFA Pass gives those who purchased a FIFA World Cup 2026™ ticket the chance to interview for a U.S. visa before the World Cup begins. 

Key Points 

• FIFA PASS does not guarantee visa approval. 
• Ticket holders must still qualify for a visa and pass security screening. 
• FIFA PASS information must match the visa application (name, passport number). 
• Mismatches may prevent access to priority appointments. 

The FIFA PASS FAQ also covers: 

• Whether FIFA PASS overrides restrictions under Presidential Proclamation 10998. 
• Whether applicants can interview outside their country of residence. 

Visa Bond Waiver for World Cup Travelers 

The U.S. Department of State will waive the visa bond requirement for certain World Cup travelers.  

The waiver applies to: 

• Nationals of competing countries who purchased tickets by April 15, opted into FIFA PASS and meet all visa eligibility requirements. 
• Athletes and team members, including coaches, support staff and immediate relatives, who are nationals of competing countries and qualify for a visitor visa. 

A list of countries subject to the B‑1/B‑2 visa bond program is available on the Department of State website. 

Travel Ban–Related Restrictions 

Some travelers may be subject to additional restrictions or entry limitations based on nationality, passport type or recent travel history. While policies can change, travelers from certain countries may face: 

• Ineligibility for ESTA. 
• Additional screening requirements. 
• Visa issuance limitations or delays. 

What to do now: 

• Confirm whether your nationality or travel history affects U.S. entry. 
• If unsure, consult official CBP or Department of State resources. 
• Use COMPASS or seek professional guidance if questions remain. 

Essential Pre-Travel Checks 

Once travelers confirm whether they need an ESTA or a B‑1/B‑2 visa, they should complete several key steps to avoid delays during high‑volume travel periods. 

Confirm Your ESTA or Visa Status 

• Ensure your authorization is fully approved and valid. 
• Link your ESTA to your current passport. 
• Save digital and printed copies. 

Make Sure Your Travel Documents Are Ready 

Even with proper authorization, incomplete documentation can slow down entry. CBP officers may request supporting information to verify the purpose and duration of your stay.  

CBP may ask travelers to show the following: 

• Proof of return or onward travel 
• Accommodation details 
• Evidence of ties outside the U.S. 

What to do now: 

• Check passport validity (often required to be six months beyond your stay). 
• Keep copies of: 
• Return flight confirmation 
• Hotel or lodging details 
• Event tickets or itinerary 
• Carry documents in your carry‑on, not checked baggage. 

Prepare for CBP Inspection on Arrival 

CBP officers inspect all travelers at U.S. ports of entry. Officers may ask questions to ensure the traveler meets admissibility requirements. Officers may ask about:  

• Purpose of travel 
• Length of stay 
• Where you will be staying 

A visa or ESTA does not guarantee entry—admissibility is decided at arrival. 

CBP also maintains a travel information page for those coming to the U.S. for the FIFA World Cup 2026™. 

COMPASS: CBP’s Virtual Assistant for World Cup Travelers

Travelers should use COMPASS, CBP’s secure virtual assistant created specifically for FIFA 2026. It provides quick, official answers to common entry and documentation questions.

What COMPASS Can Help With 

• General U.S. entry requirements 
• ESTA questions and troubleshooting 
• Information on Global Entry and Trusted Traveler Programs 
• Guidance on what to expect during CBP inspection 
• Links to official CBP resources for World Cup travelers 

Where to Access COMPASS 

• Through CBP’s FIFA World Cup landing page 
• Directly at askcompass.cbp.gov 

COMPASS is a reliable way for travelers to double-check their documents and ensure their answers at the port of entry align with CBP expectations. COMPASS brings CBP’s official guidance into one place, reducing confusion and helping travelers avoid misinformation from unofficial sources. 

What Travelers Should Do Now 

• Use COMPASS to verify entry and documentation requirements. 
• Review any questions about ESTA, visas or inspection procedures. 
• Rely on COMPASS and CBP tools rather than unofficial online advice. 

Understand What You Can (and Can’t) Bring 

Travelers should remember that U.S. Customs and Transportation Security Administration (TSA) rules are strictly enforced, and violations can result in delays or penalties.  

Key Reminders: 

• Carry-on liquids must follow the 3‑1‑1 rule. 
• You must declare all food and agricultural products. 
• You must report cash over $10,000 USD. 
• Certain items (such as weapons, restricted medications and drones near events) are prohibited. 

 What to Do Now: 

• Review the TSA and CBP prohibited-item lists. 
• Declare items honestly upon arrival. 
• Repack carry-ons to avoid screening delays. 

Traveling Between the U.S., Canada and Mexico? 

With matches hosted across all three countries, it’s important to note that entry authorization for one country does not apply to the others. Travelers must meet each country’s requirements separately, even for transit. 

• Confirm whether you need separate entry authorization for Canada and Mexico. 
• Check if a transit visa is required for connecting flights. 
• Keep itineraries, confirmations, and travel documents organized and accessible. 
• Ensure your travel plans are consistent with what you stated at U.S. entry. 

Additional Considerations  

• A U.S. ESTA or B‑1/B‑2 visa does not grant entry to Canada or Mexico. 
• Canada may require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) or a visitor visa, depending on nationality. 
• Mexico may require a Forma Migratoria Múltiple (FMM) entry form or a visa for certain travelers. 
• Border officers in each country may request proof of onward travel, lodging or ties abroad. 

How an Immigration Attorney or Envoy Global’s Business Travel Team Can Help 

The World Cup is an exciting event that brings people together and crowns a new champion, but it also comes with important travel rules and documentation requirements that visitors should keep in mind.  

Working with an immigration attorney or Envoy Global’s Business Travel team can help travelers avoid last‑minute issues and stay compliant. 

If you are a current Envoy Global client, reach out through your Communication Center with any questions about travel for this event. If you are not yet a client, contact us to see how our team can support your employees during the World Cup and other high-travel international events.  

About the Contributors 

This article was written with insights from Ellie Langroodi, Senior Attorney at Corporate Immigration Partners and Anne Nakamura, Managing Attorney at Corporate Immigration Partners.