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Tuesday, Nov 18, 2025
Outside the box.
U.S. Launches FIFA PASS to Fast-Track Visas for 2026 World Cup Visitors
President Donald Trump and FIFA President Gianni Infantino unveil an expedited visa system for international ticketholders
The United States government has introduced an expedited visa interview system designed to support the millions of international visitors expected for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
President Donald Trump announced the launch of the program, known as FIFA PASS, during a meeting at the White House with FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the administration’s World Cup task force.
The initiative, formally titled the FIFA Prioritized Appointment Scheduling System, allows ticketholders to secure earlier visa interview appointments through a dedicated government process.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the effort includes deploying additional consular staff worldwide to reduce wait times, with many countries now seeing appointment windows shortened to six to eight weeks.
Rubio emphasized that ticket ownership does not exempt travelers from standard vetting requirements, noting that the system merely moves eligible applicants forward in the scheduling queue.
President Trump highlighted the program as part of a broader strategy to ensure the United States delivers a secure, well-organized tournament while welcoming visitors from more than two hundred nations.
Infantino praised the effort as a sign of strong collaboration, noting that record early ticket sales reflect global confidence in the United States as a host.
Security considerations also featured prominently in the discussion.
When asked about concerns related to crime in certain host cities, Trump said federal assistance, including rapid National Guard deployment, would be available to any governor or mayor who requests support.
Infantino reiterated that safety remains FIFA’s top priority and that ongoing coordination with U.S. authorities will guide decisions related to match logistics.
With fewer than seven months until kickoff, the introduction of FIFA PASS marks a significant logistical milestone.
The program is expected to streamline travel preparation for millions of fans and reinforce the U.S. government’s commitment to delivering a safe and successful World Cup across more than a dozen American cities.
President Donald Trump announced the launch of the program, known as FIFA PASS, during a meeting at the White House with FIFA President Gianni Infantino and the administration’s World Cup task force.
The initiative, formally titled the FIFA Prioritized Appointment Scheduling System, allows ticketholders to secure earlier visa interview appointments through a dedicated government process.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio said the effort includes deploying additional consular staff worldwide to reduce wait times, with many countries now seeing appointment windows shortened to six to eight weeks.
Rubio emphasized that ticket ownership does not exempt travelers from standard vetting requirements, noting that the system merely moves eligible applicants forward in the scheduling queue.
President Trump highlighted the program as part of a broader strategy to ensure the United States delivers a secure, well-organized tournament while welcoming visitors from more than two hundred nations.
Infantino praised the effort as a sign of strong collaboration, noting that record early ticket sales reflect global confidence in the United States as a host.
Security considerations also featured prominently in the discussion.
When asked about concerns related to crime in certain host cities, Trump said federal assistance, including rapid National Guard deployment, would be available to any governor or mayor who requests support.
Infantino reiterated that safety remains FIFA’s top priority and that ongoing coordination with U.S. authorities will guide decisions related to match logistics.
With fewer than seven months until kickoff, the introduction of FIFA PASS marks a significant logistical milestone.
The program is expected to streamline travel preparation for millions of fans and reinforce the U.S. government’s commitment to delivering a safe and successful World Cup across more than a dozen American cities.
