How to Get Canada Visa for FIFA World Cup

The excitement for the FIFA World Cup is already on. UAE residents are gearing up for the much-awaited event of the year. If you are planning to experience the thrill of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada, it’s important to start preparing early.

We have created this guide that explains how to get Canada visa for FIFA World Cup from the UAE. It also includes the key match details being held in Canada, and practical travel tips to make your journey smooth and enjoyable.

The most important question is why to visit Canada for FIFA 2026. Canada is one of the three host nations for the FIFA World Cup 2026, alongside the United States and Mexico. The tournament will take place across multiple cities, with Canada hosting matches in Toronto and Vancouver. It’s a historic moment for Canadian football fans, as this is the first time the men’s World Cup will be played in the country.

The Canadian segment of the tournament will feature 13 matches. Toronto and Vancouver are both well-connected, vibrant cities with world-class infrastructure and will be the perfect destinations for football fans traveling from the UAE to witness the global event.

Suggested Read: Best Canada Travel Guide for UAE Residents

To plan your travel and visa timing effectively, it’s important to know where and when matches will be held.

Venues

• BMO Field, Toronto
• BC Place Stadium, Vancouver

Tentative Match Schedule

• June 12, 2026 – Opening match featuring Canada in Toronto
• June 18, 2026 – Group stage match in Vancouver
• June 24, 2026 – Another group stage match in Vancouver

Canada will host a total of 13 matches, including several group-stage and knockout fixtures. Fans traveling from the UAE should plan to arrive in early June and consider staying through late June to enjoy the main stage of the event.

Type of Canada Visa Required

UAE residents traveling for tourism or to attend events such as the FIFA World Cup need to apply for a Canadian visitor visa, officially known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV). Some UAE passport holders may instead qualify for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), depending on nationality and travel history.

Do UAE Residents Need a Canada Visa for FIFA?

Most UAE residents require either a visitor visa or an eTA to enter Canada.

• UAE citizens holding a UAE passport are typically eligible for an eTA, which can be obtained online.
• UAE residents who hold passports from countries that are not visa-exempt will need to apply for a Canada visitor visa.

If you’re planning to travel specifically for the World Cup, you should mention this purpose clearly in your visa application and provide documentation such as your match itinerary, hotel bookings, and proof of return travel to the UAE.

Here’s a simple, structured guide to help UAE residents apply for a Canada visitor visa for the FIFA World Cup 2026:

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

• Hold a valid UAE residence permit (Emirates ID) and passport.
• Confirm whether your nationality qualifies for an eTA or requires a full visitor visa.
• Ensure you have evidence of ties to the UAE, such as employment or property, to demonstrate your intent to return.

Travnook’s Canada visa experts will guide you through each step and make sure your application process is fast and smooth.

 

Step 2: Prepare the Required Documents

For UAE residents applying for a Canada visa, the following documents are typically required:

• Valid passport with at least six months of validity
• Copy of UAE residence visa or Emirates ID
• Recent passport-sized photographs meeting Canada’s photo guidelines
• Proof of funds (bank statements, salary slips, or employment letter)
• Travel itinerary (flights, hotel bookings, and match details)
• Proof of travel insurance
• Completed application forms (such as IMM 5257)
• Appointment confirmation for biometrics at the VFS Global center in Dubai or Abu Dhabi

At Travnook, we understand the requirements for Canadian visa application. We wil prepare the right documentation as per the embassy guidelines.

Also Read: Reasons for Canada Visa Rejection from UAE

Step 3: Submit Your Application

• Travnook will help you to create an account on the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal.
• Our agent will fill out the required forms accurately, upload documents, and pay the visa and biometrics fees.
• We will schedule your earliest biometrics appointment at the nearest VFS Global center.
• Wait for your application to be processed. Processing times typically range from 3 to 6 weeks.

Step 4: After Visa Approval

Once your visa is approved:

• Check all details carefully (name, passport number, validity period).
• Book your flights early, as travel demand for June 2026 will be extremely high.
• Finalize accommodation in Toronto or Vancouver, depending on your match itinerary.
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance for the duration of your stay.

Step 5: On Arrival in Canada

When you arrive, present your passport, visa, and supporting documents (hotel, tickets, and return flights) to the immigration officer. A typical visitor visa allows a stay of up to six months, which covers the duration of the tournament and possible sightseeing.

Also Read: How to Get US Visa for FIFA World Cup 2026

To make your FIFA World Cup trip stress-free, consider these key tips:

• Apply early: Submit your visa application at least three to four months in advance to avoid processing delays.
• Book flights in advance: Ticket prices will increase as the World Cup approaches.
• Secure accommodation: Hotels near match venues in Toronto and Vancouver will fill up quickly. Consider booking early or choosing nearby suburbs for better rates.
• Plan domestic travel: If you plan to attend matches in both cities, reserve domestic flights or train tickets early.
• Buy match tickets from official sources: Keep receipts and confirmations to include in your visa documentation.
• Pack smartly: Canada’s summer is mild, but evenings, especially in Vancouver, can be cool.
• Stay connected: Consider purchasing a local SIM card or an international roaming plan for navigation and updates.
• Respect local rules: Canadian stadiums have strict safety and conduct regulations. Arrive early, follow seating instructions, and enjoy responsibly.

For UAE residents eager to witness football history at the FIFA World Cup 2026, preparation is key. Start by checking your Canada visa requirements, gathering documents, and applying early.

Plan your stay around the main host cities like Toronto and Vancouver and make sure to book your flights, accommodations, and tickets well in advance.

Contact Travnook and let us handle everything for you, from visa documentation to planning your trip. With timely planning and the right visa strategy, you can ensure your journey from the UAE to Canada is smooth, memorable, and filled with unforgettable sporting moments.

Q1. When should UAE residents apply for a Canada visa to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup?

It is recommended to apply at least three to four months before your intended travel date, preferably by February or March 2026, to allow time for processing and biometrics appointments.

Q2. Is there a special visa for the FIFA World Cup in Canada?

There is no specific World Cup visa category. Travelers should apply for a standard Canada visitor visa or eTA and mention “World Cup attendance” as the purpose of travel in their application.

Q3. Do UAE citizens need a visa to travel to Canada for FIFA 2026?

UAE passport holders are generally eligible for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), which is obtained online. However, UAE residents of other nationalities may need to apply for a visitor visa depending on their citizenship.

Q4. What are the key matches being played in Canada during FIFA 2026?

The opening match will be held in Toronto on June 12, 2026, followed by two Canada group-stage matches in Vancouver on June 18 and June 24. In total, 13 matches will take place across the two Canadian host cities.

Q5. How long can I stay in Canada on a visitor visa for the World Cup?

A standard visitor visa allows stays of up to six months. This duration is sufficient for attending matches, exploring Canada, and traveling between host cities.

Q6. Can I travel between Toronto and Vancouver with the same visa?

Yes. A Canadian visitor visa or eTA allows internal travel across all provinces and cities, including Toronto and Vancouver. Ensure that your visa remains valid throughout your entire stay.

Q7. What should I do if my visa is delayed and I might miss my match dates?

Delays can occur due to high demand around the World Cup. To avoid missing matches, apply early, monitor your application status frequently, and complete biometrics as soon as possible. If needed, adjust your travel dates to attend later fixtures.