The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be unlike any other. For the first time in history, it will be hosted across three countries in North America: the United States, Mexico, and Canada. The U.S. alone will host 78 of the tournament’s 104 matches, including the final, across major cities like New York, Los Angeles, Miami, and Seattle.
With millions of fans around the world planning trips to attend matches next June, one question is top of mind: Can I get a U.S. tourist visa in time for the 2026 FIFA World Cup?
We reviewed the latest data from the U.S. Department of State on global visa wait times to determine which countries are likely — and which are unlikely — to secure a B1/B2 tourist visa before the tournament kicks off on June 11, 2026.
What Visa Do You Need to Attend the World Cup in the U.S.?
If your main reason for traveling to the U.S. is to watch the 2026 World Cup in person, you’ll likely need a B1/B2 visa, the standard U.S. visitor visa for tourism and short-term travel. This visa allows you to attend events like the World Cup, travel across the U.S., and visit friends or family for up to 6 months.
Who Can Travel to the U.S. Without a Visa to Attend the World Cup?
Citizens of 42 Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries, including most of Western Europe, Japan, South Korea, and Australia, can enter the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa, as long as they apply through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) first.
See the full list of VWP countries here.
Fans from These Countries Can Likely Get a U.S. Visa for the 2026 World Cup
Based on current visa processing times, several countries and territories still have a feasible path to getting a tourist visa by the start of the 2026 World Cup, including the ones listed below. Wait times vary by consulate or embassy and may change, so applying early is key.
Fans from These Countries Might Be Able to Get a U.S. Visa for the 2026 World Cup
Fans applying for a tourist visa in the following countries or locations should begin the visa process as soon as possible to improve their chances of approval before the tournament:
Fans from These Countries Are Unlikely to Get a U.S. Visa for the 2026 World Cup
While most travelers still have time to secure a visa, there are several countries and locations that have significant wait times, security restrictions, or bans that make travel unlikely before June 2026.
Countries With Long B1/B2 Visa Wait Times
Travelers applying in the following countries and locations may not be able to secure a visa in time for the World Cup:
If you’re from one of these countries and hoping to attend the World Cup in the U.S., we recommend contacting your nearest U.S. consulate or working with an immigration expert to explore your options.
Countries Subject to Current Travel Bans
As of June 4, 2025, people from the following countries are currently barred from receiving B1/B2 tourist visas under a new U.S. travel ban:
If you’re affected by these restrictions, consider attending matches in Canada or Mexico, which are co-hosting the 2026 tournament.
U.S. Tourist Visa Requirements for the 2026 FIFA World Cup
To apply for a U.S. World Cup tourist visa, you’ll typically need:
- A valid passport
- A completed DS-160 form
- A digital passport-style photo that meets government requirements
- Documentation of other recent trips to the U.S.
- Proof of funds
- Evidence of ties to your home country
How to Apply for a 2026 World Cup Visa
Apply as soon as possible. Many U.S. consulates have wait times of several months or more for a visa interview and appointments fill up fast. Secure your visa by completing the following steps:
- Fill out the DS-160 form online
- Pay the visa fee (currently $185 USD)
- Schedule your interview at the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate
- Prepare your documents and attend your interview
Processing times after your tourist visa interview can vary; some applicants are approved on the spot, while others may face additional delays.
Bottom Line
If you’re planning to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the U.S., don’t delay. While most countries still have time to secure a U.S. tourist visa, long processing times and limited embassy capacity could make it harder the longer you wait. Check your country’s average visa wait time, gather your documents, and apply now.