Holders of tickets for the FIFA World Cup will have access to prioritized visa interviews prior to their arrival in the United States for the event.
This initiative was announced following a meeting involving U.S. President Donald Trump, the White House Task Force, and FIFA President Gianni Infantino.
The FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System, known as FIFA PASS, aims to help the Trump administration manage a rigorous immigration policy while facilitating entry for international guests attending the global soccer tournament.
“America welcomes the world,” Infantino stated. “We have consistently maintained that this will be the greatest and most inclusive FIFA World Cup ever, and the FIFA PASS is a tangible demonstration of that commitment.”
Seventy-eight matches will be played across eleven U.S. cities during the 48-team tournament, with additional games hosted in three cities in Mexico and two cities in Canada.
Following the onset of ticket sales in October, FIFA revealed that over 1 million tickets have already been sold, and Phase 2 of ticket sales commenced in late October for an additional million tickets.
As teams worldwide finalize their qualifications for the 48-team lineup, the host nations—U.S., Mexico, and Canada—are already assured of their spots. The group-stage draw is scheduled for December 5.
Trump strongly urged travelers coming to the U.S. for the World Cup to apply for their visas “immediately.”
Secretary of State Marco Rubio announced that over 400 extra consular officers have been deployed globally to meet the visa demand, noting that in approximately 80% of the world, travelers can secure a visa appointment within 60 days.
This report includes information from The Associated Press.