USA Visa Requirements for FIFA World Cup 2026 Fans

USA Visa Requirements for FIFA World Cup 2026

Most international visitors will need a U.S. tourist visa (B1/B2) or travel authorization under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) to attend World Cup matches in 2026.

Citizens of about 40 countries, including the United Kingdom, most European Union nations, Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand, can visit the U.S. without a traditional visa for up to 90 days through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). Travelers from these countries must apply online for ESTA before boarding their flight.

Fans from other countries, such as India, China, South Africa, Nigeria, and many Latin American nations, will need to apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa at their nearest U.S. embassy or consulate — one of the key USA visa requirements for FIFA World Cup 2026 travelers.

Regardless of your country, make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay, and always check the latest entry rules a few months before your trip.

Types of Visas to Travel to the USA

Most international travelers attending the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the United States will need to apply for either a B1/B2 visa or travel under the ESTA Visa Waiver Program, depending on their nationality.

B1/B2 Visa

• The B1 visa is intended for business-related travel, while the B2 visa is for tourism, vacations, and visiting family or friends.
• You can also apply for a combined B1/B2 visa, which covers both purposes.
• The visa is valid for up to 10 years, allowing multiple entries during that period.
• Each stay can last for a maximum of 6 months per entry.

This visa is ideal for fans who plan to visit multiple host cities or return to the U.S. for future events.

ESTA – Visa Waiver Program

Citizens of certain eligible countries — including most of Europe, the UK, Japan, Australia, and South Korea — can enter the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) using an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).

• ESTA allows visitors to stay in the U.S. for up to 90 days without a traditional visa.
• It’s valid for two years or until your passport expires.
• The application is completed online and usually approved within a few hours to a few days.

Refer to the table below to find out which nationalities need a visa to visit the United States and which can enter without one.

Application Steps for USA Visa

The visa application process for the FIFA World Cup 2026 depends on whether you qualify for the ESTA Visa Waiver Program or need to apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa.

For ESTA (Visa Waiver Program)

If you are eligible for the Visa Waiver Program, you can apply through the Official ESTA website or by using the ESTA mobile app.

• Fill out the online application form and pay the USD 40 application fee before traveling.
• Most applicants receive a response within 24 hours.
• Once approved, ESTA remains valid for two years or until your passport expires, whichever comes first.

For B1/B2 Visitor Visa

If you do not qualify for ESTA, you must apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa.

• Complete the Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application (Form DS-160) and upload a digital passport photo that meets U.S. visa requirements.
• Pay the non-refundable USD 185 application fee and the USD 250 Visa Integrity Fee.
  The Integrity Fee is refundable only in limited situations — such as if you leave the U.S. within 5 days of your authorized stay ending (as shown on your I-94), legally adjust your status (for example, receiving a Green Card), or get an approved visa extension. Refunds are not automatic; you must apply for one manually and submit proof such as your I-94 travel history or boarding pass.
• After payment, schedule your visa interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. Appointment availability varies by location.
• During your interview, you’ll provide fingerprints, supporting documents, and answer questions about your travel plans.
• Processing Time: The B2 visa process can take anywhere from a few weeks to several months, depending on the volume of applications and embassy workload. Apply well in advance of the tournament.

Note: Visa fees and procedures can vary slightly by country. Always confirm the latest requirements on your local U.S. embassy or consulate website before applying.

Documents Required for USA Visa

To apply for a U.S. visa for the FIFA World Cup 2026, you’ll need to prepare several essential documents. Having these ready in advance will make the process smoother and help avoid delays during your interview or online application.

For B1/B2 Visa Applicants

• 🛂 Valid Passport — must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the U.S.
• 🧾 Form DS-160 Confirmation Page — printed after completing the online application.
• 🖼️ Digital Passport Photo — following official U.S. visa photo specifications.
• 💳 Visa Fee Payment Receipt — proof of payment for the application and integrity fee.
• 📅 Interview Appointment Confirmation — received after scheduling your interview.
• 🏨 Travel Itinerary — match tickets, hotel bookings, or flight details (if available).
• 💼 Proof of Financial Means — recent bank statements or income proof to show you can cover your trip.
• 📄 Ties to Home Country — employment letter, property documents, or family documents that demonstrate your intent to return.

For ESTA Applicants (Visa Waiver Program)

• 🛂 Valid Passport — from a Visa Waiver Program country, with an electronic chip (ePassport).
• 💻 Online ESTA Application — completed through the Official website or app.
• 💳 Credit or Debit Card — to pay the USD 40 application fee.
• ✉️ Email Address — to receive approval confirmation.

💡 Tip: Keep both digital and printed copies of your approval documents and receipts when traveling, as you may be asked to present them at the port of entry.