The United States government has announced a new initiative called ‘FIFA Pass’ ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the country.
This ‘FIFA Pass’ is an initiative aimed at fast-tracking visas for World Cup ticket holders.
Unveiled by U.S President Donald Trump alongside FIFA President Gianni Infantino, the system will prioritize visa interview appointments for those attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup matches across 11 U.S. host cities.
Trump said the new initiative aims to balance his administration’s rigorous security protocols with the massive influx of visitors expected for the global tournament.
Speaking in the Oval Office, President Trump urged fans to apply “right away,” emphasizing the government’s efforts to ensure fans are “properly vetted and able to come to the U.S. next summer easily.”
Trump stated, “For those who intend to join us for the World Cup, I strongly encourage you to apply right away.”
Speaking also, Infantino said that the ‘FIFA Pass’ initiative was a “very important announcement.”
“If you have a ticket for the World Cup, you can have a prioritised appointment to get your visa.
“We’ll have between five and 10 million people coming to America from all over the world to enjoy the World Cup, and with this FIFA pass, we can make sure that those who buy a ticket, who are legitimate football fans or soccer fans, can come and attend the World Cup in the best conditions,” he said.
However, U.S Secretary of State Marco Rubio was quick to warn those with hopes of making it to the World Cup event.
“Your ticket is not a visa. It doesn’t guarantee admission to the US. It guarantees you an expedited appointment, you’re still going to go through the same vetting,” Rubio stated.
He disclosed that ticket holders would get an interview within six to eight weeks under the plan and urged people to act now.
“Don’t wait till the last minute,” Rubio added.
Pan-Atlantic Kompass reports that the new initiative for football fans comes amid the Trump administration’s approach to visa protocols in 2025.
His administration has introduced several rigorous changes across different categories.
Recall that Trump slashed the visa validity of Nigerians to just three months with a single entry.
Also, the U.S had announced new guidance for certain non-immigrant categories, like student and exchange visitors (F, M, and J visas). The guidance directed consular officers to conduct comprehensive vetting, which includes a review of applicants’ social media accounts.
Also, eligibility for the interview waiver program for visa renewals has been restricted. A Proclamation effective in September 2025 requires a $100,000 payment to accompany any new H-1B visa petitions. This one-time fee applies to the lottery and other new petitions.
Meanwhile, Nigeria won’t be participating at the 2026 FIFA World Cup in the U.S.
This comes after the Democratic Republic of Congo, DR Congo knocked out the Super Eagles on penalties (4-3) in a 2026 FIFA World Cup African playoff final.
