FIFA PASS: How to Get a Priority U.S. Visa Appointment for the World Cup 2026

High demand for U.S. visas is ongoing ahead of the 2026 World Cup, especially from countries with long interview queues. FIFA PASS is designed to give verified participants a practical advantage in booking earlier appointments.

Read this article to learn who is eligible and how to secure a faster FIFA PASS World Cup visa appointment.

Table of contents

• FIFA PASS 2026 Explained
• Who Is Eligible for FIFA PASS?
• How to Register FIFA PASS
• How to Link FIFA PASS to Your U.S. Visa Application
• Required Documents for FIFA PASS and U.S. Visa
• Passport Photo Requirements for FIFA PASS and DS-160
• Get Your U.S. Visa Photo Online
• Timeline: When to Apply for FIFA PASS and Visa
• FAQ

FIFA PASS 2026 Explained

FIFA PASS, or the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System, is a voluntary program designed for FIFA World Cup 2026™ ticket holders. It offers expedited access to U.S. visa interview appointments, aiming to help international fans navigate lengthy visa wait times. Launched by the U.S. Department of State in partnership with FIFA and the White House, this initiative ensures fans can travel to the U.S. for the tournament. Here you’ll find a clear guide on its function, eligibility, and key dates.

How does the FIFA PASS work? This system connects your verified FIFA ticket information (name, passport number) with the U.S. visa scheduling platform. It grants access to priority slots at consulates, while all visa approval and security assessments remain unchanged.

What is the purpose of FIFA PASS? The main purpose is to enable international fans to secure a U.S. visa interview appointment before the tournament begins on June 11, 2026. This is particularly beneficial for fans from countries where visa interview wait times are long, often spanning months or more than a year.

Key Limitations

Before applying, take note of these restrictions as outlined by the U.S. Department of State:

• No guarantee of approval: While the priority interview offers convenience, it doesn’t assure visa approval. You must demonstrate eligibility for the visa and commitment to returning home post-tournament.
• Travel ban restrictions: If your country is under U.S. travel bans or presidential directives (Proclamation 10998), having a ticket doesn’t exempt you from these restrictions. You may still be denied a visa.
• Application location: Typically, you must apply for the visa in your home country, as FIFA PASS doesn’t support "third-country" applications (applying in a country where you don't reside).
• Single-entry visas: If your home country issues single-entry visas, you’ll receive the same for this event. There’s no special provision for multiple entries, except that re-entry might apply when traveling between Canada and the U.S.

Guidelines for ticket transfers and family:

• Ticket transfer: If you receive a transferred ticket (for instance, purchased by a friend), you’re still eligible. Create a FIFA ticketing account, accept the transfer, and complete your opt-in form. The original buyer will provide a "Key" to link the ticket.
• Family members: Spouses and minor children can join the ticket holder for the visa interview and utilize the priority slot even if they don’t possess their own tickets.

Who Is Eligible for FIFA PASS?

FIFA PASS is crafted for those holding tickets to the FIFA World Cup 2026 who need a U.S. visa interview and desire priority scheduling. Participation is optional and aids only with scheduling the interview, not in securing visa approval or entry into the U.S. Below, we explain what criteria you must meet to access the system.

To qualify for FIFA PASS, you must fulfill these requirements:

• Direct Ticket Purchase: Buy your match tickets directly from FIFA (via FIFA.com/tickets) or On Location, the official hospitality provider. Tickets from resellers such as StubHub or Viagogo are not eligible.
• U.S. Attendance: Plan to attend games in one of the 11 U.S. host cities. FIFA PASS is unnecessary for matches in Canada or Mexico, though you may need to fulfill their entry requirements.
• Visa Requirement: You must be a citizen of a country requiring a visa for U.S. entry (i.e., not eligible for the Visa Waiver Program/ESTA).

Note: If you're from a Visa Waiver Program country, such as the UK, Australia, Japan, or EU nations, you don't need FIFA PASS. Simply apply for your ESTA directly.

How to Register FIFA PASS

Registration requires accurate personal details and proof that you are connected to the World Cup, such as a ticket or accreditation. The process is completed online and must match the information you later use for your visa application. Here you’ll find out about the steps involved.

FIFA PASS registration steps:

1. Wait for FIFA to notify ticket holders with a key or opt-in instructions. Current ticket holders will receive a notification, and new buyers will have the option available at purchase.
2. Log in to your FIFA.com account and submit the opt-in form using the provided key.

Note: If you've purchased a ticket but haven't received the opt-in form, consult FIFA’s support section for assistance.

How to Link FIFA PASS to Your U.S. Visa Application

Once registered, you must connect your FIFA PASS profile to your U.S. visa application to unlock priority scheduling. This step ensures that consular systems recognize your eligibility for an expedited appointment. Here you’ll learn what you need to do to correctly link your accounts and confirm your priority status.

Steps to link FIFA PASS:

1. After registering, complete the DS-160 visa form and ensure all details match exactly with your FIFA PASS information.
2. Provide a photo, and pay the necessary fee.
3. After waiting at least one hour post-opt-in, schedule your visa interview. Confirm "Yes" to being a FIFA ticket holder when prompted. If the data matches, the system will grant access to priority appointment slots.

Details that must match:

• your full name;
• passport number;
• country of application;
• details on your FIFA ticket account and FIFA PASS form.

Required Documents for FIFA PASS and U.S. Visa

FIFA PASS itself demands no documents beyond your World Cup 2026 ticket and opt-in confirmation via your FIFA account. For the U.S. visa process, which FIFA PASS facilitates, you need the standard documents for a B1/B2 visitor visa, with your World Cup ticket serving as useful support. Here’s what you need:

• FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket confirmation: Officially purchased through FIFA.
• Valid passport: Including number, issue, and expiry dates.
• Contact Information: Email, phone, and address.
• Digital passport photo: Required for both FIFA PASS and DS-160.
• Printed passport photos, if required by the embassy.

Passport Photo Requirements for FIFA PASS and DS-160

When preparing your photo for FIFA PASS, follow U.S. visa digital image standards. Since FIFA PASS ties into the DS-160 process, using the same photo ensures consistency in identity verification. Upload your photo when prompted during the FIFA account opt-in. Here, you’ll find out about the exact photo requirements.

• Recent photo taken within the past six months to ensure accuracy.
• Use a color photo without harsh shadows or reflections.
• Background should be plain white or off-white, free of patterns.
• Size must be from 600×600 to 1200×1200 pixels, with a file size under 240 KB.
• Photo format should be JPEG, recently taken within six months.
• Image must be square; physical size should be 2×2 inches (51×51 mm).
• Head size must occupy 50-69% of the image height (1-1 3/8 inches or 25-35 mm from chin to top).
• Maintain a neutral expression with both eyes open and mouth closed.
• No glasses allowed; head coverings only for religious reasons but must show full face.

Here is a FIFA PASS photo example:

Get Your U.S. Visa Photo Online

Learn how to create an acceptable U.S. visa photo online without needing a professional studio visit. Modern online photo tools make this process easy and efficient. Use Visafoto, a dependable photo editing service, in just two steps:

1. Take a photo in natural daylight and upload it to the Visafoto tool below.
2. Choose "USA" as the destination country and "visa" as the document type.

That's it! Visafoto will automatically adjust the background, size, and head positioning to meet official specifications. You'll receive a digital image ready for DS-160 submission and optionally print a ready-to-use physical copy.

Example of the photo you can upload to Visafoto:

The result after Visafoto editing:

Visafoto boasts a 99.7% acceptance rate, with over 1,000,000 photos previously accepted by government agencies. It guarantees compliance with U.S. visa standards or offers a complete refund. Our tech support is available around the clock for any assistance you might need.

Timeline: When to Apply for FIFA PASS and Visa

Timing directly affects your chances of securing a priority appointment, especially as demand increases closer to the tournament. You need to coordinate FIFA PASS registration with your visa application schedule. Here you’ll learn what you need to know about deadlines, recommended timelines, and how early to apply.

FIFA PASS Timeline:

• January 2026: Available opt-in form via FIFA account notification for existing ticket holders.
• At ticket purchase: New buyers are automatically prompted to opt in.
• After opt-in: Wait an hour, then schedule your visa interview using priority access if available.

U.S. Visa Timeline:

• 6-9 months pre-travel: Complete the DS-160, pay the $185 fee, and schedule your interview (via FIFA PASS if eligible).
• Interview to issuance: Processing typically takes 1-4 weeks post-approval; apply early, as wait times may extend without priority.
• Dates of the FIFA World Cup in America: June 11 - July 19, 2026; some visas are valid for up to 10 years, but ensure coverage for your travel itinerary.

Key steps:

• Apply for FIFA PASS immediately after purchasing your tickets, especially if you reside in a country with long wait times.
• Schedule your visa interview as soon as possible.

Important considerations:

• Remember that FIFA PASS does not guarantee a visa. You must prove your eligibility for a visitor visa and intend to return home after the event.
• Appointment availability might still be limited.
• Verify your passport's validity in relation to your travel dates.

Don't wait. The application process is detailed and requires attention. Ensure you have your visa before the World Cup starts on June 11, 2026.

FAQ

Do I need a FIFA PASS if I’m from a Visa Waiver Programme country?

No, you don't need FIFA PASS. Use the ESTA system for visa-free entry up to 90 days without an interview.

How long does it usually take to get a visa through FIFA PASS?

Typically, it takes 1-4 weeks post-interview to process a visa through FIFA PASS. It accelerates interview scheduling but not the approval process itself.

What happens if there are no FIFA PASS slots for my country?

Book a regular U.S. visa interview. Priority slots exist only in locations with extended wait times; FIFA PASS can't create additional slots.

What happens if my visa is refused even with a FIFA PASS?

FIFA PASS doesn’t influence visa decisions. Denials are based on standard criteria, such as ties to your home country. You may reapply with new evidence, but World Cup tickets remain non-refundable and a refusal might affect future applications.