FIFA World Cup 2026 in Canada: Entry Rules, Visas, and Work Authorization Explained
Canada is preparing to welcome thousands of international visitors as it hosts matches during the FIFA World Cup 2026. Between June 11 and July 19, 2026, a total of 13 matches will take place in Toronto and Vancouver, drawing fans, workers, volunteers, and media professionals from around the world.
For non-Canadian citizens, attending or working at the event will require advance planning, as entry authorization depends on nationality, travel method, and purpose of visit.
Entry Requirements for International Fans
Visitors travelling to Canada solely to attend FIFA World Cup matches may require either a visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA).
The type of document required depends on:
- The traveller’s citizenship
- Whether travel is by air, land, or sea
A visitor visa is a physical document placed in a passport and is required for nationals of visa-required countries. Processing times can range from several weeks to months.
An eTA is an electronic authorization required for visa-exempt nationals travelling to Canada by air. Processing is typically faster, often completed within minutes or days.
Canadian immigration authorities strongly advise applying well in advance, regardless of which authorization is required.
Who Does Not Need a Visa or eTA
Certain travellers are exempt from both a visitor visa and an eTA. These include:
- United States citizens
- U.S. permanent residents with valid proof of status
- French nationals residing in and travelling directly from St. Pierre and Miquelon
These travellers must still carry valid travel documents, such as a passport or proof of permanent residence.
Importantly, holding a FIFA match ticket is not required to apply for a visa or eTA, and possession of a ticket does not guarantee approval of entry authorization.
Declaring FIFA Travel in Your Application
Applicants travelling specifically for the FIFA World Cup are encouraged to mention this in their immigration application.
- eTA applicants may note “FIFA World Cup 26” in the background information section
- Visitor visa applicants may include the same wording in the section describing planned activities in Canada
This information is collected for monitoring purposes only and does not provide priority processing or special exemptions.
Working or Volunteering at the FIFA World Cup 2026
Some individuals may enter Canada without a work permit if they are directly invited by FIFA to participate in official event activities.
Work permit exemptions apply to:
- FIFA players, referees, team officials, and match staff
- Media and broadcast professionals accredited for the event
- Volunteers formally invited by FIFA
- Workers invited by FIFA for official event operations
While these groups may be exempt from work permits, they may still require a visitor visa or eTA depending on their nationality and travel method.
Who Still Needs a Work Permit
Individuals not directly invited by FIFA, including contractors or third-party service providers, may still require a work permit depending on the nature of their role.
Even when a work permit is not required, a valid visitor visa or eTA may still be necessary for entry. Workers are advised to confirm their requirements well in advance to avoid delays.
Criminal Admissibility: A Critical Consideration
Canada enforces strict admissibility rules. Travellers may be denied entry if they are considered criminally inadmissible, even if the offence occurred outside Canada or is considered minor in another country.
Canadian authorities assess offences based on Canadian law equivalents. Inadmissibility may arise from:
- Past criminal convictions
- Pending charges
- Admission of having committed an offence
Some individuals may overcome inadmissibility through:
- A Temporary Resident Permit
- Deemed rehabilitation
- Criminal rehabilitation
Approval is discretionary, and attending a sporting event may not be considered a compelling reason for entry. Processing times for these applications can be lengthy, making early assessment essential.
Additional Travel Considerations
Travellers should also keep the following in mind:
- Processing times vary by country and application volume
- Certain goods must be declared at the border, including large sums of currency, alcohol, tobacco, and animals
- All travellers must hold valid travel documents
Advance planning remains the most effective way to ensure smooth entry into Canada during the World Cup period.
For a consultation about Immigration options, reach out to the CAD IMMIGRATION today!
