US President Donald Trump has announced a special fast-track visa system for ticket holders traveling to the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a move aimed at easing concerns that his strict border policies could complicate the fan experience. The announcement was made in the Oval Office alongside FIFA president Gianni Infantino, who called the new “FIFA Pass” an important step toward ensuring smoother travel for millions of visitors expected next year.
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The concept is simple: anyone who has purchased a World Cup ticket will be eligible for a prioritised visa appointment. Infantino emphasized that with an estimated five to ten million international visitors planning to attend matches across the US, this system is meant to help genuine football fans secure interview slots without long delays. But despite the promising presentation, US officials were clear that this fast-track option does not offer guaranteed entry into the country.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio stressed that the FIFA Pass only speeds up the appointment process and does not replace standard vetting. Every applicant will still undergo the usual security checks and interviews before a visa can be approved. Rubio warned fans not to mistake their match ticket for a visa, urging them to begin the process immediately to avoid last-minute complications. Under the new plan, applicants are expected to receive interview appointments within six to eight weeks.
Trump has positioned the 2026 Fifa World Cup, set to be the biggest in history, as a symbolic centerpiece of his second term and an important part of celebrations marking the 250th anniversary of US independence. However, the event is unfolding against a backdrop of political tension. Questions have already emerged over whether Trump’s tough stance on crime and immigration might affect logistics for certain host cities. He has hinted at the possibility of shifting matches away from cities he says are struggling with security issues, comments that have stirred debate among local officials and fans.
Despite the political noise, preparations are moving forward, with the tournament draw scheduled for December 5 in Washington. On the same day, FIFA will introduce a new peace prize. Speculation is swirling that Trump himself could be the inaugural recipient, a possibility that has only added more attention to an already highly political moment.
As excitement builds for the 2026 World Cup, international fans now face a mix of opportunities and uncertainties. The fast-track visa system may ease some of the pressure, but the final decision still rests on the usual US immigration procedures. For millions of football supporters hoping to experience the tournament up close, the message from US officials is unmistakable: secure your ticket, start your visa process early, and be prepared for thorough checks before stepping onto American soil next year.
