Why Your World Cup Ticket Might Move You to the Front of the Visa Line

The United States has announced a new visa-appointment system designed to help foreign fans attend the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

The program, formally called the FIFA Prioritised Appointment Scheduling System (Pass), allows travelers who already hold match tickets to receive priority when booking their visa interview appointments at U.S. embassies and consulates.

According to President Donald Trump and Secretary of State Marco Rubio, the system does not guarantee a visa, nor does a ticket replace one; all applicants will still undergo the same security vetting as any other visitor. What Pass changes is the timeline: in countries where interview waits stretch to nine, eleven or even fourteen months, ticket-holding fans may secure interviews within six to eight weeks.

The move comes as officials prepare for as many as 10 million visitors expected across North America during the World Cup.

The U.S. Travel Association welcomed the policy, calling it a practical step to reduce bottlenecks without weakening security.

Uncertainty remains, however, for fans from countries affected by Trump’s June travel ban — a policy that exempts athletes and staff but not general spectators. Pass also does not apply to citizens of Visa Waiver countries, who already travel without a visa.