2026 World Cup Ticket Holders Granted Expedited U.S. Visa Processing

The US government announced that fans holding 2026 World Cup tickets will get priority scheduling for American visa appointments. President Donald Trump revealed what's being called the "FIFA permit" at the White House after meeting with World Cup organizers, giving ticket holders faster access to visa interviews but not guaranteed entry.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino stood alongside Trump at the White House to explain the new system. "If you have a World Cup ticket, you can get priority to schedule an appointment for your visa," he said. The announcement comes as the US prepares to co-host the tournament with Canada and Mexico in 2026.

Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged fans not to wait. "Our advice to everyone is: if you have a ticket to any match and haven't applied yet, you need to do it as soon as possible. Don't wait until the last minute," he said.

But Rubio made clear that tickets don't guarantee entry. "Your ticket is not a visa. It doesn't guarantee entry into the United States. What it guarantees is just a quick appointment," he explained.

The move addresses potential visa bottlenecks that could prevent international fans from attending matches. US visa processing times have been a concern for major events, with some consulates facing months-long waits for appointments. By giving ticket holders priority, the government aims to ensure smooth entry for legitimate World Cup visitors while maintaining security protocols.

This represents a practical approach to managing what will likely be massive visa demand. The 2026 World Cup expects millions of international visitors across the three host countries, with the US hosting the majority of matches including the final.