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33m ago

U.S. Launches ‘FIFA PASS’ to Fast-Track Visa Interviews for 2026 World Cup Fans

The State Department will verify ticket holders through a FIFA portal to schedule expedited interviews without changing security vetting.

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U.S. President Donald Trump sits next to FIFA President Gianni Infantino, as he meets with the White House Task Force on the FIFA World Cup 2026 in the Oval Office at the White House in Washington, D.C., U.S., November 17, 2025. REUTERS/Evelyn Hockstein
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Curaçao players and fans celebrate World Cup 2026 qualification after a 0-0 draw with Jamaica at the National Stadium in Kingston, Jamaica on November 18, 2025.

Overview

  • Verified buyers will use a dedicated FIFA portal to book prioritized U.S. visa interview appointments starting in early 2026.
  • Officials stressed that tickets do not guarantee visas or entry, with standard screening unchanged and interview targets of roughly six to eight weeks.
  • Secretary of State Marco Rubio said about 400 additional consular officers are deployed and that roughly 80% of countries now see appointment waits near 60 days.
  • The White House announcement featured President Donald Trump, FIFA president Gianni Infantino, Homeland Security Secretary Kristi Noem and World Cup task force director Andrew Giuliani.
  • Trump suggested matches could be moved from cities he deems problematic and offered federal assistance to host locales, as FIFA projects millions of visitors and over six million tickets, with more program details due in early 2026 and the tournament draw set for Dec. 5 in Washington.