FIFA has announced a new visa initiative following a meeting between FIFA President Gianni Infantino and U.S. President Donald Trump, aimed at easing travel for international fans attending the 2026 World Cup.
The system, known as the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS), will grant ticket-holders prioritized visa interviews to streamline entry into the United States. Officials say the move is designed to boost international attendance and ensure smoother travel ahead of the tournament.
The announcement comes amid heightened scrutiny of U.S. immigration policies under the Trump administration, which has adopted stricter deportation and visa enforcement measures in 2025. Critics have questioned whether such policies could complicate hosting the world’s largest sporting event in North America.
Despite concerns, demand for tickets remains strong. FIFA reported that more than one million tickets were sold during its first release in October.
Infantino, in a statement, said the initiative reflects preparations to welcome fans on an unprecedented scale.
“The United States is set to welcome fans from around the world, and we are preparing to ensure that football unites the world when the tournament kicks off in North America next June,” he said.
The 2026 World Cup will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico across 16 cities, featuring an expanded format of 48 teams.
U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio underscored the government’s commitment to facilitating fan attendance.
“The United States is offering prioritized 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. We’re honored to host the greatest and safest World Cup in history,” Rubio said.
The collaboration between FIFA and the U.S. government marks a significant step in addressing travel concerns, as preparations intensify for what is expected to be the largest World Cup in history.
