FIFA World Cup 2026: Canada Removes a Major Visa Requirement for Eligible Visitors

With just four months to go before the first whistle of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Canada has announced an important immigration measure designed to ease travel for tournament participants.

Under a new public policy issued on February 25, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has removed one of the biggest administrative hurdles for many foreign nationals travelling to Canada for the event.

Eligible individuals who receive an official invitation letter from FIFA are now exempt from providing biometrics (fingerprints and photographs) when applying for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV).

The exemption:

• Applies retroactively to eligible TRV applications submitted on or after November 25, 2025
• Remains in effect until July 20, 2026, the day after the tournament’s final match in Vancouver
• Covers approved officials, athletes, and designated support staff travelling in and out of Canada during the World Cup

This temporary policy aims to simplify entry procedures and ensure smoother international movement during one of the world’s largest sporting events.

For travellers planning to attend—or those unsure whether they qualify under the new rules—proper application preparation remains essential to avoid delays.

👉 Check If You Qualify for the FIFA World Cup Visa Facilitation Policy