State Department Details FIFA PASS Priority Visa Appointments for the 2026 World Cup

What FIFA PASS is

The U.S. Department of State has detailed FIFA PASS — the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System — for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Fans who bought tickets directly from FIFA and opt in may get the chance to schedule a visa interview before the tournament, ahead of the general queue.

Key conditions

• A priority appointment is not a visa. Ticket holders still undergo full security screening and vetting and must qualify like any applicant.
• Apply in your home country. FIFA PASS is generally available only where you are a national or resident — not for booking a priority slot in a third country.
• How it works: opt in through your FIFA account, then complete the standard process (DS-160, photo, interview).
• Visa bond waiver: nationals of competing countries who bought tickets and opted in by April 15 — and are otherwise eligible for a visitor visa — may have the visa bond waived.

Our analysis: what it means for fans

• Opt in early. The benefit is a faster appointment, which matters most where interview wait times are long — but only if you meet the ticket and deadline conditions.
• Plan for normal scrutiny. Approval still hinges on standard eligibility; treat the appointment as scheduling help, not a shortcut to issuance.
• Athletes have a separate path. A travel-proclamation exception covers athletes, teams, support staff, and immediate relatives.

For exact eligibility and steps, consult the official FIFA PASS FAQ. We will note further updates as the tournament approaches.

Source

Original — U.S. Department of State

This is original commentary based on the source below, not legal advice. Confirm details with the official source.