US Visa for FIFA World Cup 2026 – Complete Guide for UAE Residents

The most anticipated football event, the FIFA World Cup 2026, is approaching. The FIFA 2026 is going to be historic not just because it will feature a record number of teams (48 nations instead of 32), but also because it will be co-hosted by three countries: the United States, Canada, and Mexico. With the majority of matches taking place in the US, millions of fans are expected to travel from around the globe to experience football at its highest level.

To witness this historic event, you need to have a US visa. Most fans will need to secure the right US visa for FIFA 2026. This detailed guide covers everything you need to know about the visa process, travel tips, costs, and frequently asked questions to make your journey smooth and stress-free.

The FIFA World Cup is one of the world’s most popular sporting events, attracting millions of international visitors. For the 2026 tournament, US embassies and consulates are expected to face record-high visa application volumes. Visa processing times can already take weeks or months, and with the added rush, delays are inevitable.

So, booking a US visa appointment on time, ideally 10 to 12 months before the tournament begins, increases your chances of securing a visa on time. Early planning also allows you to coordinate your match tickets, accommodation, and travel insurance without last-minute stress.

Suggest Read – How to Secure FIFA Visa from Dubai

Whether you need a visa depends on your nationality. Here’s a breakdown:

Citizens of 40+ eligible countries, including the UK, Germany, France, Japan, South Korea, and Australia, can travel to the US without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program. Instead, you must apply for an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) online.

• Valid for stays up to 90 days.
• Apply at least 72 hours before travel, though earlier is recommended.
• Cost: May vary, contact Travnook for the latest details(valid for two years or until passport expiry).
  

If you are a resident of a country that’s not part of the VWP, you will need to apply a B-2 tourist visa. This is the most common visa for travelers attending events like FIFA.

• Allows stays of up to 6 months.
• Multiple entries may be permitted, depending on your visa.
• Application fee: Depends on various factors. For the latest details, contact Travnook.
  

For travelers connecting through a US airport en route to Mexico or Canada, a C visa may be required if your nationality doesn’t qualify for visa-free transit.

• Canadian citizens: Do not need a visa to enter the US (but must carry a valid passport).
• Mexican citizens: Can enter with a Border Crossing Card (BCC) or a valid tourist visa.

Step 1: Choose the Right Visa Type

For most fans, the B-2 tourist visa is the correct option.

Step 2: Complete the DS-160 Form

• Visit the official US State Department website.
• Fill out the DS-160 non-immigrant visa application form.
  

Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee

• Standard fee: May vary depending on nationality. Contact Travnook for the latest details.
• Pay online or via authorized payment centers.
  

Step 4: Schedule Your Interview

• Book an appointment at the nearest US embassy or consulate.
• Wait times vary widely, it may be for months during peak time.
  

Step 5: Gather Required Documents

The mandatory documents that you will need are:

• Valid passport (valid at least 6 months beyond your intended stay).
• DS-160 confirmation page.
• Visa fee receipt.
• Interview appointment confirmation.
• Supporting documents (hotel bookings, FIFA match tickets, proof of funds).

If you are a UAE resident, additional documents may be required. Travnook experts will help you in preparing the right documents as per your nationality.

Step 6: Attend the Interview

• Expect questions about your purpose of travel, financial stability, and ties to your home country.
• Be honest and confident. Your answers should match your application details.

Step 7: Wait for Visa Processing

• Processing can take days or weeks, depending on embassy workload.

Track your application online.

1. Apply Early: Begin your application process at least 6 to12 months before FIFA 2026.
2. Show Proof of Return: Strong ties to your home country (employment, property, family) improve approval chances.
3. Present Clear Travel Plans: Match tickets, hotel bookings, and flight itineraries show genuine intent.
4. Financial Stability: Bank statements or salary slips help prove you can afford your stay.
5. Check Passport Validity: Ensure your passport won’t expire during your trip.
   

The cost of a US visa application includes ds-160 application fee, ESTA fee (for VWP travelers), and other costs that include travel insurance, courier charges etc. Travnook visa experts will guide you with all the latest details applicable.

Knowing the host cities helps you plan your visa application and travel logistics. The US will host matches in:

• New York/New Jersey (MetLife Stadium)
• Los Angeles (SoFi Stadium)
• Dallas (AT&T Stadium)
• Miami (Hard Rock Stadium)
• San Francisco Bay Area (Levi’s Stadium)
• Atlanta (Mercedes-Benz Stadium)
• Philadelphia (Lincoln Financial Field)
• Houston (NRG Stadium)
• Seattle (Lumen Field)
• Boston (Gillette Stadium)
• Kansas City (Arrowhead Stadium)

• Accommodation: Book hotels early—prices will skyrocket closer to the tournament.
• Transport: Consider domestic flights, Amtrak, or ridesharing apps.
• Health Insurance: US medical costs are high; get comprehensive coverage.
• Event Security: Allow extra time for security checks at stadiums and airports.
• Mobile Connectivity: Purchase a US SIM card or an international roaming plan.

1. Do I need a US visa if I’m traveling only to Canada or Mexico for FIFA matches?

If your flights connect through the US, you may still need a transit visa. Check requirements based on your nationality.

2. How long does it take to get a US tourist visa?

Processing times vary by country but can take several weeks to months. Apply as early as possible.

3. Will FIFA 2026 ticket holders get priority for visas?

No, having match tickets does not guarantee visa approval, but it strengthens your case.

4. Can I use my existing US tourist visa for FIFA 2026?

Yes, if your visa is valid, you don’t need to reapply. Just ensure it doesn’t expire before or during your trip.

5. Is ESTA enough for FIFA 2026?

Yes, if your country is in the Visa Waiver Program and your trip is less than 90 days. Otherwise, you need a B-2 visa.

6. Can I attend matches in both Canada and the US on the same visa?

No. Each country has separate entry requirements. A US visa/ESTA is needed for US matches, and a Canadian eTA or visa is required for Canadian matches.

7. What happens if my visa is denied?

You may reapply, but you’ll need to provide new evidence or correct issues raised during the first application.

The US visa for FIFA World Cup 2026 might seem complex and overwhelming, but with right preparation, it’s absolutely manageable. Whether you are applying for a B-2 tourist visa or traveling under the Visa Waiver Program, the key is to plan wisely, keep documents ready, and demonstrate clear travel intent.

By securing your visa early, you can focus on what really matters, and that is enjoying world-class football with fans from across the globe. So don’t delay and start your US visa process today, and get ready to be part of history at FIFA 2026!

Let Travnook be your travel advisor for the smooth planning of FIFA 2026. Our US visa experts will help you apply for a US visa for FIFA and make sure that it is seamless for you with the right preparation.