Article Highlights:

  • World Cup 2026 spans three countries, making entry and exit planning essential for all travelers.
  • Visa and passport delays are expected as global demand increases ahead of the FIFA World Cup.
  • US, Canada and Mexico each have distinct entry requirements that apply at every border crossing.
  • Early preparation reduces the risk of denied boarding, entry refusal or missed matches.
  • Traveler awareness programs and contingency planning are critical during high-volume global events.

 

 

The World Cup 2026 will be unlike any previous tournament. For the first time, the FIFA World Cup will be jointly hosted by three countries — the United States, Canada and Mexico — with matches spread across dozens of cities and multiple international borders. For travelers, that scale creates extraordinary opportunity and equally significant logistical complexity.

Whether you are following your national team across borders or attending a single match abroad, understanding immigration rules, passport requirements, visa timelines and entry procedures is essential. The FIFA World Cup 2026 will attract millions of international visitors and governments across North America are already urging fans to prepare early to avoid delays, denied boarding or entry refusal.

This guide outlines what travelers need to know to enter and exit the United States, Canada and Mexico smoothly during the world cup, and how to reduce risk while moving between host countries.

 

Entering the United States for World Cup 2026

For international fans attending matches in the United States, early planning is critical. US immigration authorities have made clear that standard visa security and processing protocols remain in place for World Cup 2026, even as special accommodations are expected for ticket holders.

If you require a US visa and do not already have one, now is the time to begin the process. Visa appointment wait times in many countries already stretch for months and demand will surge as the tournament approaches.

Foreign travelers should confirm which of the following applies:

Visitors from countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) — currently 42 nations — may apply for entry using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). ESTA approval is required before boarding a flight to the United States and must be secured in advance.

Travelers from countries not eligible for the VWP must apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa. This process includes an in-person interview at a US embassy or consulate and may involve long wait times depending on location.

Canadian and Bermudan passport holders do not need a visa or ESTA to enter the United States as tourists.

All visitors entering the United States must hold a passport valid for at least six months beyond the period of intended stay, unless they are citizens of exempt countries under US agreements.

The US Department of State has announced that additional information regarding the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (PASS) will be shared with ticket holders in early 2026. Travelers whose visa appointment availability extends beyond tournament kickoff are advised to wait for PASS details before booking.

American fans traveling to Canada or Mexico for World Cup matches should immediately verify passport expiration dates. A valid US passport is required for international air travel and is the most reliable form of identification at land borders.

Current US passport processing timelines include:

Routine service: 4–6 weeks
Expedited service: 2–3 weeks, plus an additional fee

These timelines do not include mailing time, which can add several weeks to total turnaround. Travelers should factor in the complete processing cycle when booking flights or accommodations.

Last-minute passport renewals during peak World Cup demand may result in missed matches or denied boarding.

 

STEP Enrollment and Traveler Awareness

American travelers heading abroad for World Cup matches should enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). This free service allows the US Department of State to provide real-time safety, security, weather and health alerts for destinations in Canada and Mexico.

STEP also enables embassies and consulates to contact travelers during emergencies such as natural disasters, civil unrest or family crises. Enrollment takes approximately 20 minutes and can be completed online before departure.

 

Entering Canada During World Cup 2026

Canada will host matches across multiple cities and entry requirements vary based on citizenship and travel method.

US citizens do not need a visa, Canadian passport or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) when entering Canada with a valid US passport. Border officials will verify identity and citizenship upon arrival.

While alternative documents may be accepted at land crossings, a passport remains the recommended and universally accepted form of identification.

US permanent residents arriving by air must present proof of citizenship and a valid US permanent resident card. Those arriving by land or water from the United States may present their permanent resident card without a passport.

International travelers (non-US citizens and non-permanent residents) must carry a valid passport and may require either a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Eligibility depends on nationality and travel method.

Travelers who require an eTA should apply well before booking flights. While many approvals are issued within minutes, processing delays can occur, especially during periods of high demand.

 

Entering Mexico for World Cup Matches

Mexico’s role in World Cup 2026 will draw substantial international travel, particularly from fans attending multiple matches across borders.

All travelers entering Mexico must carry a valid passport book or card. There is no minimum passport validity requirement beyond the length of stay, but the passport must remain valid throughout the visit.

Upon arrival, travelers must complete the Multiple Digital Migration Form (FMMd), provided by airlines or available online. This document must be retained and presented upon departure from Mexico.

Mexican immigration officers may request additional documentation based on travel purpose. For tourists, this may include hotel reservations or return tickets. Business travelers, technicians and students may be required to present supporting letters or contracts.

US citizen minors traveling domestically within Mexico by air must carry a US passport book.

Length of stay authorization is determined by Mexican immigration authorities at the port of entry and may vary.

 

Managing Cross-Border Travel During the Tournament

One of the defining challenges of the FIFA World Cup 2026 is the likelihood of fans crossing borders multiple times within a short period. Each entry is treated as a separate immigration event and travelers must meet all requirements at every crossing.

This means travelers should carry original passports at all times, ensure visas and travel authorizations remain valid for the duration of travel and plan buffer time for border inspections, especially during peak match days.

Failure to meet entry requirements, even once, can disrupt entire itineraries.

 

The Global Rescue Connection

International sporting events like the World Cup 2026 combine massive crowds, fast-paced travel and unfamiliar environments, conditions that increase medical, security and logistical risks for travelers.

A Global Rescue membership provides vital protection beyond traditional travel insurance, including field rescue, medical evacuation, real-time medical advisory services and global security support. When emergencies occur far from home or across international borders access to coordinated medical and evacuation expertise can make the difference between disruption and safe return.

For travelers following the world cup across the United States, Canada and Mexico, preparation extends beyond tickets and visas. It includes ensuring professional support is available wherever the tournament takes you.