Football fans worldwide have received exciting news as FIFA and the United States government unveiled a groundbreaking program to simplify visa processes for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup. The new initiative, called FIFA PASS, promises to revolutionize how international supporters secure entry to the United States for the global football spectacle.
What is FIFA PASS?
The FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS) represents a major collaboration between world football's governing body and US authorities. This innovative program guarantees ticket holders priority access to visa interview appointments, significantly reducing waiting times and bureaucratic hurdles.
The official announcement came during a landmark event at the White House attended by key figures including FIFA President Gianni Infantino, US President Donald Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Secretary of Homeland Security Kristi Noem. The presence of these high-ranking officials underscores the program's importance in ensuring a successful tournament.
How FIFA PASS Benefits Nigerian Fans
For Nigerian football enthusiasts planning to support their team in person, FIFA PASS offers a streamlined pathway to secure US visas. The system allows ticket holders to bypass regular appointment queues, providing dedicated scheduling slots specifically for World Cup travelers.
FIFA President Gianni Infantino emphasized the program's significance, stating: "America welcomes the World. We have always said that this will be the greatest and most inclusive FIFA World Cup in history – and the FIFA PASS service is a very concrete example of that."
Tournament Details and Application Process
The 2026 World Cup marks several historic firsts, featuring an expanded 48-team format and matches spread across 16 host cities in three North American nations. The United States will host matches in eleven cities, while Mexico and Canada will host in three and two cities respectively.
US Secretary of State Marco Rubio urged fans to act promptly: "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."
FIFA has advised potential travelers in countries requiring US visas to begin their applications immediately through the official portal: FIFA World Cup 2026 – United States Department of State. Additional information about FIFA PASS will be shared directly with ticket holders in early 2026.
For supporters from countries participating in the Visa Waiver Programme, travel authorization remains available through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). With over six million tickets available for the tournament, this initiative ensures that football truly unites the world when the competition kicks off in June 2026.
