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In a move sure to excite football fans around the globe US President Donald Trump announced a new initiative to help international travelers get U.S. visas faster for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The program, called “FIFA PASS”, is designed to streamline the visa interview process for ticket holders, making it easier for fans to attend the tournament.
What Is FIFA PASS?
FIFA PASS stands for Prioritized Appointment Scheduling System, and it works much like a VIP lane at a theme park—except for visas. Fans who purchase World Cup tickets through FIFA can use a dedicated portal to schedule their U.S. visa interviews ahead of the usual queue. The aim is to reduce waiting times and ensure fans can attend the highly anticipated matches across the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
Extra Consular Support
To handle the surge in visa applications, the U.S. State Department is adding over 400 additional consular officers worldwide. Current data shows that in about 80% of countries, visa interview wait times are expected to be 60 days or less. While this system speeds up the process, it does not guarantee visa approval. Standard vetting procedures will still apply.
Timing and Scope
The fast-track system is specifically for the 2026 World Cup matches in the United States, running from June 11 to July 19, 2026. Only fans with tickets purchased through FIFA are eligible for the FIFA PASS portal. This ensures that the initiative targets genuine attendees while managing the high volume of applications.
Economic and Cultural Impact
Trump emphasized that the program isn’t just about convenience for fans—it also has an economic angle. The World Cup is expected to generate $30 billion in economic activity and create around 200,000 jobs across the U.S. Hosting international football fans safely and efficiently is a priority for maximizing both the cultural and financial benefits of the event.
Bottom Line
🏅 FIFA PASS is a win for football enthusiasts! It’s a targeted policy designed to speed up visa interviews while keeping security checks in place. If you’re a ticket holder, this could be your golden ticket to a smoother entry process for one of the biggest sporting events in the world.
References
- AP News – Trump unveils ‘FIFA Pass’ to help World Cup travelers get visas faster
- Reuters – US will make it easier for World Cup fans to get visa appointments
- The Guardian – US unveils World Cup visa system but warns fans could still be denied entry
- Washington Post – Trump announces World Cup visa fast-track system
