State Department Releases New Guidance on World Cup Visa Appointments

With the 2026 FIFA World Cup now underway, some international fans are still working to secure visas for matches scheduled later in the tournament. The U.S. Department of State has released expanded guidance on the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS), offering new details about how international fans can secure visa interview appointments before their travel dates.

The newly published FAQ provides the clearest explanation yet of who qualifies, how the system works, and what FIFA PASS can and cannot do for travelers.

Not sure whether you need a visa to travel to the United States for the World Cup? Find out if you're eligible today.

What Is FIFA PASS?

FIFA PASS allows eligible World Cup ticket holders who need a B-1/B-2 visitor visa to access priority interview appointments before the tournament begins. To participate, travelers must purchase their tickets directly from FIFA, opt into FIFA PASS through their FIFA account, complete the standard visa application process, and schedule a visa interview.

Applicants who receive a FIFA PASS appointment must still complete all standard visa requirements, including security screening and eligibility review. Keep in mind, priority scheduling does not guarantee visa approval.

Family Members May Be Eligible

According to the new guidance, spouses and minor children of eligible ticket holders may also use FIFA PASS appointments, provided they attend the interview with the ticket holder.

The agency also confirmed that a visa issued after a FIFA PASS appointment will not be revoked if the traveler later sells or transfers their World Cup ticket. Visa eligibility is based on the applicant, not continued ownership of a ticket.

Travel Restrictions Still Apply

The FAQ also explains how FIFA PASS interacts with current immigration restrictions.

According to the State Department, travelers who are otherwise subject to existing travel restrictions remain subject to those restrictions even if they qualify for FIFA PASS. While athletes, coaches, support personnel, and their immediate family members may qualify for certain exceptions, those exceptions generally do not apply to fans or spectators.

The guidance further clarifies that a January 2026 pause affecting immigrant visa issuance for certain nationalities does not apply to tourist visas, athlete visas, media visas, or other nonimmigrant visa categories associated with the World Cup.

Applicants Must Generally Apply in Their Home Country

The State Department also confirmed that FIFA PASS is generally available only to applicants applying in their country of nationality or residence. Most travelers cannot use the program to obtain a priority appointment in a third country.

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