Canada to allow FIFA-invited foreign workers to enter without permit for 2026 World Cup

Canada has introduced temporary immigration measures to support the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 76th FIFA Congress in Toronto and Vancouver. The policy allows certain FIFA-invited foreign nationals to work in the country without a work permit between December 1, 2025 and July 31, 2026.

The government says these workers will support the economic, social and cultural activity generated by the event. Officials have outlined public policy considerations under section 25.2 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, stating that streamlined entry will help deliver a major international tournament. The policy revokes an earlier exemption signed in October 2025, with all previous approvals remaining valid until the new expiry date of July 31, 2026.

Under the updated rules, eligible individuals must hold an official invitation letter from FIFA confirming their role as an employee, contractor or subcontractor. They must be listed on the FIFA microsite and perform time-limited work directly linked to FIFA-organised events during the specified period. The policy permits officers to exempt applicants from paragraph 183(1)(b), which restricts unauthorised work, and from section 196, which requires a work permit. All other admissibility and eligibility rules continue to apply.


The exemption applies to those requesting entry and departure between December 1, 2025 and July 31, 2026. It took effect upon signature and will remain active until July 31, 2026 unless revoked earlier. IRCC says the move supports Canada’s preparations as the country prepares for increased tourism and global attention.

US launches FIFA Pass to speed up visa processing

The United States has introduced the FIFA Pass, a dedicated system offering faster visa interview appointments for visitors who purchased their World Cup tickets through FIFA. The initiative includes a separate portal for priority scheduling and the deployment of more than 400 additional consular officers worldwide. The US aims to deliver visa appointments within 60 days in most countries and is urging fans to apply early.

Mexico has not announced similar measures. Authorities say travellers should continue monitoring updates as all three host nations prepare for the event.