Visa guide for Latinos attending the 2026 World Cup: ESTA, B1/B2, and the FIFA PASS system
- Jul 8
- 5 min read
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is right around the corner. From June 11 to July 19, the United States (US) will be one of three host countries along with Canada and Mexico, with 11 US cities hosting matches. If you are thinking about traveling to see a game, there is one thing you cannot leave for the last minute: the visa.
The US government has already issued a clear warning: if you need a visa and don't have one, NOW is the time to apply. In this article, we explain everything you need to know about US entry requirements for the 2026 World Cup, the difference between ESTA and the B1/B2 visa, and how the FIFA PASS system can help you speed up the process.
ESTA or B1/B2 visa? The first big decision
Not all travelers need the same document to enter the US. The first question you need to ask yourself is: does my country participate in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)?
ESTA: for travelers from Visa Waiver Program countries
Currently, 42 countries participate in the Visa Waiver Program. Citizens of these countries can travel to the US for tourism or business without a visa, as long as they apply for an electronic authorization called ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).
Among the countries eligible for ESTA are most of Western Europe, as well as Japan, South Korea, Australia, New Zealand, and Chile (the only South American country included so far). ESTA allows a maximum stay of 90 days in the US.
If your country is in the VWP, you do not need to apply for a B1/B2 visa. You only need to complete the ESTA application online before traveling and pay the corresponding fee.
B1/B2 visa: for the rest of the world
If your country does not participate in the Visa Waiver Program, you need a B1/B2 visitor visa to enter the US. This includes most countries in Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, and Asia.
The B1/B2 visa is for tourism (B2) or business (B1) and allows a stay of up to 180 days (6 months) per trip. To apply, you must complete the DS-160 form online, pay the application fee (currently $185), and attend an interview at the US embassy or consulate in your country.
Basic requirements for the B1/B2 visa
According to information from US embassies and the State Department, these are the essential requirements for applying for a tourist visa:
Valid passport: With at least six months of validity beyond your intended departure date from the US.
Form DS-160: Complete the online nonimmigrant visa application.
Recent photo: In color, with a white background, and meeting visa photo standards.
Proof of payment: The application fee is $185.
Supporting documents: Proof of ties to your home country (employment, property, family), as well as evidence of sufficient funds to cover your trip.
The FIFA PASS system: your ally to speed up the visa process
If you purchased your tickets directly from FIFA for the 2026 World Cup, you have access to a special benefit: the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (PASS).
What is FIFA PASS?
FIFA PASS is a voluntary priority appointment system created by FIFA in coordination with US immigration authorities. It is aimed exclusively at official ticket holders for the 2026 World Cup who need to apply for a B1/B2 visitor visa.
The system allows fans to access a priority consular interview, making the process easier before the tournament begins. It is especially useful for fans from countries where visa wait times are long.
How does FIFA PASS work?
According to the US State Department, the process is as follows:
Log in to your FIFA.com account and complete the FIFA PASS enrollment form.
Complete the visa application process: fill out the DS-160 form, upload a recent photo, and pay the visa fee.
Schedule your interview: when asked if you are a FIFA ticket holder, answer "Yes." If the information matches, you will have access to a FIFA PASS appointment.
What FIFA PASS is NOT
It is important to be clear that FIFA PASS is not a visa, does not guarantee approval, and does not exempt you from any requirements. It only helps expedite the interview appointment. Like all visa applicants, ticket holders must undergo a security review and demonstrate that they qualify for the visa.
Who does NOT need to use FIFA PASS?
Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not need any additional authorization to enter the US as tourists.
Countries included in the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) can complete their process regularly without using FIFA PASS.
Fans from countries where visa appointments are already fast also do not need to use the system.
Important recommendations for World Cup attendees
Apply early
The US government has warned that visa appointment wait times may increase during the World Cup. Do not leave your application to the last minute. If you need a B1/B2 visa, start the process now.
Check your passport validity
Make sure your passport has at least six months of validity beyond your intended departure date from the US. If your passport is about to expire, renew it before starting the visa process.
Prepare your supporting documents
Bring proof of your ties to your home country: employment letter, rental contract, property deeds, children's birth certificates, bank statements, etc. The immigration officer wants to see that you have reasons to return.
The World Cup ticket is not enough
Having a World Cup ticket proves you have a genuine purpose for traveling, but by itself it does not guarantee visa approval or entry. You must meet all immigration requirements.
Clear information, not legal advice
At RISE Immigration Services, we are not lawyers, but we are here to inform you. This content is a guide based on official announcements from the US State Department and reliable sources. For specific advice about your case, always consult with a licensed immigration attorney.
References
U.S. Department of State. U.S. Visa and Travel Information for FIFA World Cup 2026™ Fans.
U.S. Department of State. FIFA World Cup 26 Visas Pass FAQ.
U.S. Department of State. FIFA World Cup 2026™ Visas.
U.S. Customs and Border Protection. CBP Welcomes You to FIFA World Cup 2026.
FIFA. FIFA PASS application process now open. 20 de enero de 2026.
FIFA. Travel, Visas and FIFA PASS for FIFA World Cup 2026™.
Infobae. ¿Planeas viajar a Estados Unidos por el Mundial 2026? Esta es la Visa especial que debes obtener. 5 de junio de 2026.
Semana. Mundial 2026: requisitos de visa para viajar a Estados Unidos y Canadá desde América Latina. 7 de junio de 2026.
Metro Ecuador. Así puedes aplicar al FIFA Pass para el Mundial 2026. 22 de enero de 2026.
Tribuna.com. 2026 World Cup guide: 8 key things fans need to know before trip.
Poyner Spruill LLP. 2026 FIFA World Cup: U.S. Travel and Visa Considerations. 12 de mayo de 2026.
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