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In a new research looking back at 20 years of World Cups, the WTTC says the 2026 edition marks a new stage in the management of international travel. From ESTA and eTA to Trusted Traveler programs, FIFA PASS and digital information tools, the tournament hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico reflects a major shift: borders are becoming more advanced and connected, but travel formalities remain essential.
In Argentina, Noblex has turned visa denials into a marketing campaign. On the eve of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the first applicants rejected by a U.S. or Canadian consulate could walk away with a television to watch the matches from home.
In written evidence submitted to the U.K. Parliament, Formula 1 says restrictive visa rules are creating obstacles for some personnel needed to deliver the British Grand Prix at Silverstone. The organization is calling for a faster visa waiver system for major sporting events.
As the 2026 World Cup draws closer, Gianni Infantino says fans from around the world must be able to travel to the United States. The FIFA president pointed to ongoing discussions with the three host countries and highlighted the existence of an expedited process for certain travelers who already have match tickets.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, a study highlighted by the U.S. Travel Association points to major tourism and economic potential for the United States. But according to the organization, that promise will only materialize if the country can reassure travelers about entry procedures, safety, and overall visitor readiness.
Just over a year before the next Africa Cup of Nations, Uganda is beginning to clarify how it intends to welcome fans, delegations, and visitors. The country today confirmed a planned visa fee waiver around the tournament and reaffirmed its support for a common visa with Kenya and Tanzania.
Now that the groups for the 2026 World Cup are officially set, attention can already shift to another kind of match, an administrative one this time: entry requirements. U.S. ESTA, Canada’s eTA, visa exemptions, e-Visas, or specific electronic travel authorizations in Mexico: fans will have to navigate three very different systems.
Just over four months before kickoff of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, U.S. authorities, in coordination with FIFA, are today launching an unprecedented priority appointment system for visa applications. Known as FIFA PASS, the program is designed to facilitate entry into the United States for international ticket-holding fans, while fully maintaining standard screening and security procedures.
Announced jointly by Donald Trump and Gianni Infantino, the “FIFA PASS” promises expedited visa interview appointments at U.S. consulates for holders of 2026 World Cup tickets.
For the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, CAF is banking on ‘Yalla,’ an app that combines Fan ID and e-Visa. Designed to manage stadium access and simplify procedures for international visitors, it is set to become the central tool of the fan experience during the tournament.
