Visa & entry checker.
The 2026 World Cup spans three countries. Find out exactly what entry documents you need — by your passport nationality.
Visa & Entry Checker
Select your nationality and host countries to see exactly what you need.
Important: This tool is for general guidance only. Entry requirements change frequently. Always verify with the official government website of each country before booking travel. KickoffFooty is an unofficial fan site and is not affiliated with FIFA, any government, or official travel authority.
Entry requirements at a glance.
United States
🇺🇸 ESTA or Visa
Citizens of 42 Visa Waiver Program countries need an ESTA ($21, usually instant). Everyone else needs a B-2 tourist visa.
Canada
🇨🇦 eTA or Visa
Citizens of ~50 visa-exempt countries need an eTA (CAD $7, usually instant) for air travel. All others need a Temporary Resident Visa.
Mexico
🇲🇽 Generally Open
Mexico is visa-free for most nationalities. You'll receive a free tourist card (FMM) on arrival.
What is ESTA?
ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) is required for citizens of countries in the U.S. Visa Waiver Program — including most of Western Europe, Australia, Japan, South Korea, and Singapore. It is not a visa but a pre-travel screening. Apply at esta.cbp.dhs.gov (the only official CBP site). Cost: $21 USD. Processing: usually minutes, allow up to 72 hours. Valid for 2 years.
What is an eTA?
Canada's Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is required for citizens of visa-exempt countries flying into Canada. Apply at canada.ca. Cost: CAD $7. Processing is usually instant. Valid for 5 years or until your passport expires.
Traveling to multiple host countries?
The USA, Canada, and Mexico each have separate, independent entry systems. An ESTA does not let you enter Canada; an eTA does not help with the USA. If you're crossing borders, plan each country's authorization separately — and check transit requirements if routing through U.S. airports.
Always verify before you travel.
Entry requirements change. Policies can shift due to diplomatic agreements, reciprocity rules, and government decisions. This tool reflects requirements as of mid-2026 and is for general guidance only. KickoffFooty is not affiliated with FIFA, any government, or any official travel body. Always confirm requirements with the embassy or official immigration website of the country you are visiting.
FAQ
Visa questions, answered.
Do I need a visa for the 2026 World Cup?
It depends on your nationality and which host countries you'll visit. The US, Canada, and Mexico each have their own rules, so you may need an ESTA, an eTA, a full visa, or nothing at all. Use our entry checker for your exact situation, and always confirm on the official government sites.
Is a World Cup ticket enough to enter the United States?
No. A match ticket grants venue entry, not entry into the country. You still need a valid ESTA (if your country is in the Visa Waiver Program) or a B-2 tourist visa before you travel. Apply well in advance — the ticket and your travel authorization are completely separate.
Does a US ESTA cover Canada for the World Cup?
No. The US and Canada have entirely separate entry systems. An ESTA only authorizes entry into the United States. For Canada, visa-exempt nationalities need an eTA (CAD $7, applied at canada.ca). Use our checker to see what your passport requires for each host country.
Do I need a visa if I have a UK or Schengen visa?
Not automatically. A UK or Schengen visa does not exempt you from US, Canadian, or Mexican entry requirements. Each country assesses your nationality independently. Use our entry checker to see exactly what your passport requires for each host country.
Can I transit through Canada to the US for the World Cup?
If you're flying through a Canadian airport, you typically need a Canadian visa or eTA even in transit — unless you hold a valid US visa or are a citizen of a visa-exempt country. Check the IRCC transit rules before booking a connection through Canada.
When should I apply if I need a US visitor visa?
As early as possible — ideally 3–6 months before your travel date. US B-2 visa wait times vary significantly by consulate, and demand spikes sharply for major events. Check your local US Embassy wait times at travel.state.gov. An ESTA, if you qualify, processes in minutes.