Getting a B1/B2 visitor visa for the USA can often be a long and time-consuming process, especially for travellers from countries outside the Visa Waiver Program. But with the FIFA World Cup 2026 drawing closer, football fans planning to watch the matches live have some relief coming their way. The US has introduced the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (PASS) to help streamline visa appointments for World Cup travellers, and here’s everything you need to know about it.
What Is FIFA PASS Priority Visa For World Cup 2026?
Unless you are from a Visa Waiver Program country, getting a B1/B2 visitor visa for the US usually involves filling out the DS-160 non-immigrant visa form, paying the application fee, and attending an interview with a consular officer, a process that can often take time depending on your country of origin.
However, with the FIFA World Cup 2026 approaching, the US has introduced a simpler process for football fans travelling to watch the tournament. According to The Hindu, fans who purchase official World Cup match tickets through FIFA can access priority visa interview appointments through the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (PASS).
The programme allows eligible ticket holders who opt into FIFA PASS to secure a B1/B2 visa interview before the tournament begins. Travellers will still need a passport valid for at least six months beyond their stay in the US, although some nationality-based exemptions may apply.
Also Read: Did You Know You Can Earn $50,000 For Watching All 104 FIFA World Cup Matches?
All You Need To Know About This
Travellers from the 42 countries that are part of the Visa Waiver Program do not need a visitor visa to enter the US. Instead, they can apply for ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization), which allows short stays of up to 90 days for tourism or business purposes. However, obtaining ESTA approval before travelling is mandatory for all Visa Waiver Program participants.
We hope this information was helpful to you all!
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What is FIFA PASS?
FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (PASS) is a programme launched by the US to help FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket holders get priority visa interview appointments before the tournament begins.
Who can use FIFA PASS?
Fans who purchase official FIFA World Cup 2026 tickets directly from FIFA and opt into the FIFA PASS programme can use the system.
What visa is needed to attend the FIFA World Cup in the US?
Most international travellers will need a B1/B2 visitor visa to enter the US for tourism purposes.