Applying for a Canada visitor visa for the FIFA World Cup

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is set to be a historic event, with Canada, the United States, and Mexico co-hosting the largest tournament in FIFA history.

From June 11 to July 19, 2026, 48 teams will compete across 16 host cities, with Canada welcoming 13 matches in Toronto and Vancouver.

For international soccer fans planning to cheer from the stands at BMO Field or BC Place, securing the right travel authorization is essential.

This comprehensive guide walks you through everything you need to know about obtaining a Canada visitor visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to attend the FIFA World Cup 2026, ensuring a seamless and exciting experience.

Understanding Canada’s Entry Requirements for FIFA World Cup

There are two primary travel authorizations for visitors: the Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), commonly known as a visitor visa, and the Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA).

Your nationality and mode of travel determine which one you need.

• Temporary Resident Visa (TRV): Required for citizens of visa-required countries (Click here for a full list of visa-required countries).
  • A TRV allows short-term stays for tourism, including attending events like the FIFA World Cup.
  • It can be single-entry or multiple-entry, with the latter being ideal for fans planning to travel in and out of Canada during the tournament.
• Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA): Required for visa-exempt nationals (click here for a full list of visa-exempt countries) travelling to Canada by air.
  • An eTA is linked to your passport and valid for multiple entries over up to five years or until the passport expires, making it perfect for World Cup travel.

Key Note: A U.S. or Mexican visa does not grant entry to Canada, and vice versa. Fans travelling across the three host countries must meet each nation’s entry requirements separately.

Canada will host 13 matches, with six in Toronto (including the opening game on June 12, 2026) and seven in Vancouver (including two games on July 18 and 24).

The multiple-entry TRV or eTA is ideal for fans attending matches in both cities or crossing borders to watch games in the U.S. or Mexico.

No special “FIFA World Cup visa” exists, but the standard TRV or eTA will suffice. Apply early due to expected high demand during the tournament.

Multiple-Entry Visa for the FIFA World Cup 2026

You’ve likely seen social media posts or news snippets claiming that “Canada is rolling out a multiple-entry visa” specifically for the FIFA World Cup 2026, making it easier for fans to travel in and out of the country during the tournament.

While this sounds exciting and convenient, it’s a myth that’s been amplified by misinformation and oversimplification.

Posts from various social media pages suggest Canada is launching a new, event-specific multiple-entry visa to facilitate fan travel across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico.

These claims often stem from excitement about the tournament and a misunderstanding of standard immigration policies.

For instance, a viral post might reference “big news for soccer fans” without citing official sources, leading to widespread sharing.

The Reality: No New Visa Program

• • Official resources, including the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website and FIFA’s tournament page, emphasize applying for standard visitor visas or eTAs early, with no mention of a tailored program.No Official Announcement: As of September 11, 2025, neither the Government of Canada nor FIFA has announced a specialized “FIFA World Cup multiple-entry visa.”
• Standard Policies Apply: Multiple-entry Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs) have been available for years as part of Canada’s regular immigration framework.
  • They allow holders to enter and exit Canada single or multiple times during the visa’s validity (typically up to six months, but extendable based on individual circumstances).
  • The eTA for visa-exempt travellers is inherently multiple-entry and valid for up to five years. These options are ideal for World Cup fans but aren’t “new” or exclusive to the event.
  • Social media hype, combined with the Visa cardholder ticket presale (launched September 10, 2025), may have fueled mix-ups—note that “Visa” here refers to the payment company, not immigration documents.Why the Confusion?: Discussions about streamlining travel for the tri-nation tournament are ongoing, including potential facilitations for fans, but nothing concrete has been rolled out.

What This Means for Fans

• Good News: You can still get a multiple-entry TRV or eTA, which works perfectly for attending matches in Toronto and Vancouver or hopping borders. Just apply through the standard process.
• Advice: Ignore unverified claims and rely on official sites. If a “special visa” pops up in future announcements, it will be clearly stated on canada.ca or fifa.com.
  • For now, focus on early applications to beat the rush—processing times could spike with millions of fans inbound.

By debunking this myth, we hope to clarify the path forward: Canada’s existing system is robust enough for the World Cup, but preparation is key.

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Canada Visitor Visa (TRV)

Follow these seven steps to secure a TRV for the FIFA World Cup 2026. Early application is critical due to processing times that can range from weeks to months, especially during high-demand periods.

Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility

• Ensure your country requires a TRV. Check the full list of visa-requiring countries here.
• Verify your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure from Canada (July 2026 or later).
• Confirm you have no criminal or immigration-related inadmissibility issues (e.g., past visa overstays or convictions).

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Prepare the following documents to strengthen your application:

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for the duration of your stay.
• Proof of Purpose: FIFA World Cup ticket confirmation (if available) or a detailed travel itinerary showing match dates and locations (e.g., Toronto or Vancouver). If tickets aren’t yet purchased, include a letter explaining your intent to attend.
• Proof of Funds: Bank statements, pay stubs, or a sponsor’s financial documents showing you can cover travel, accommodation, and living expenses (e.g., CAD $1,000–$2,000 per month of stay).
• Ties to Home Country: Evidence like a job letter, property ownership, or family responsibilities to prove you’ll return home.
• Travel History: Copies of previous visas or stamps to demonstrate compliance with immigration rules.
• Photos: Two passport-sized photos meeting Canada’s specifications.
• Optional: Invitation letter (if staying with friends/family) or proof of accommodation bookings (hotels, Airbnb).

Tip: FIFA tickets may be required as proof of purpose at the border, so purchase them through official channels to avoid fraud.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

• Fill out the application form for Temporary Resident Visa.
• Answer all questions accurately, including your travel purpose (“Tourism” or “Attend FIFA World Cup 2026”).
• If applying for a family, each member needs a separate form.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

• Pay the CAD $100 application fee online via credit/debit card.
• If biometrics are required (for ages 14–79 from certain countries), pay an additional CAD $85.
• Keep payment receipts for your records.

Step 5: Submit Your Application

• Online: Preferred for faster processing. Upload documents through the portal.
• Paper: Submit at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) or embassy/consulate in your country.
• Allow extra time for paper applications, as they take longer to process.

Step 6: Provide Biometrics (if required)

• If prompted, schedule an appointment to provide fingerprints and a photo.
• Biometrics are valid for 10 years, so previous submissions may exempt you.

Step 7: Attend a Visa Interview (if requested)

• Some applicants may be called for an interview.
• Be honest, confident, and prepared to discuss your travel plans, financial situation, and intent to return home. Bring all documents, including match tickets or itineraries.

Processing Time

• Processing times vary by country (e.g., 2–8 weeks or more).
• Apply at least 6–12 months in advance (by mid-2025) to account for high demand.

Explaining the “Purpose of Visit” for FIFA World Cup 2026

When applying for a Canada Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to attend the FIFA World Cup, clearly stating your purpose of visit is crucial.

This helps visa officers understand that your trip is temporary, legitimate, and aligned with tourism rules.

The purpose should demonstrate that you’re visiting solely to enjoy the tournament as a fan, with no intent to work, study, or overstay.

The “purpose of visit” is typically explained in:

• The Application Form (IMM 5257): In the “Details of Visit to Canada” section, briefly describe your plans (e.g., “Attending FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in Toronto and Vancouver as a tourist”).
• A Supporting Letter: A one-page “Purpose of Travel” or “Statement of Purpose” letter, which provides more details. This is especially important if you don’t have tickets yet or need to elaborate on your itinerary.

Visa officers assess whether you’ll leave Canada after your visit. A strong purpose statement ties your trip to the event, shows financial planning, and highlights your home-country connections (e.g., job, family).

For the World Cup, include specifics like match dates, ticket details (if available), and how it fits your short stay (June–July 2026).

Key Elements to Include

• Your Background: Brief intro with your full name, nationality, occupation, and current address.
• Trip Details: Exact purpose (attending specific matches), dates, locations (e.g., BMO Field in Toronto), and itinerary (e.g., flights, hotels).
• Proof of Temporary Intent: Explain why you’ll return home (e.g., job responsibilities, family obligations).
• Financial and Accommodation Plans: How you’ll fund the trip and where you’ll stay.
• Event-Specific Info: Reference the FIFA World Cup 2026, including ticket confirmations or presale draw participation.

Keep it concise (300–500 words), honest, and in English or French. Attach supporting documents like ticket emails, flight bookings, or bank statements.

Sample Purpose of Visit Letter for FIFA World Cup 2026

Below is the sample “purpose of visit” letter for the FIFA World Cup.

Dear Visa Officer,

I am [Your Full Name], a [your age]-year-old [your nationality] citizen, currently employed as [your job title] at [your employer/company name] in [your city/country].

I am writing this letter to explain the purpose of my planned visit to Canada from [planned arrival date, e.g., June 8, 2026] to [planned departure date, e.g., July 20, 2026].

My sole purpose is tourism: to attend matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026 as a lifelong soccer fan.

The FIFA World Cup 2026, co-hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico, will feature 48 teams across 104 matches from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

As a passionate supporter of [your favourite team, e.g., Brazil’s national team], I have secured [or: entered the Visa Presale Draw for] tickets to [specific matches, e.g., three group-stage games at BMO Field in Toronto on June 12, 15, and 18, 2026, and one at BC Place in Vancouver on July 10, 2026].

Attached are my FIFA ticket confirmations (or: proof of lottery entry) and a detailed itinerary.

My travel plans include:

• Arrival: Flight from [your city] to Toronto Pearson International Airport on June 8, 2026 (booking attached).
• Itinerary: Stay in Toronto from June 8–16 at [hotel name/address, e.g., Hilton Toronto, CAD $200/night]; attend matches and explore local sites like the CN Tower. Travel by train to Vancouver on June 17; stay at [hotel name/address, e.g., Fairmont Waterfront, CAD $250/night] until July 20 for additional matches and sightseeing (e.g., Stanley Park).
• Departure: Return flight from Vancouver to [your city] on July 20, 2026 (booking attached). Total stay: 42 days, aligned with the tournament schedule.

I will fund this trip entirely with my personal savings (bank statements attached showing CAD $5,000 balance) and salary (pay stubs attached).

No one in Canada is sponsoring me, and I have no family or business ties there.

I am committed to returning home after the tournament, as I have strong ties to [your country]: my full-time job at [employer], where I have worked for [X years] and expect a promotion in August 2026; my [family details, e.g., wife and two children] who rely on me; and property ownership [if applicable, e.g., a home in [city]]. I have previously traveled to [other countries] and always returned on time (passport stamps attached).

I assure you this is a genuine tourist visit, and I will abide by all Canadian laws.

Thank you for considering my application. I am available for any further information.

Sincerely,
[Your Full Name]
[Your Signature]

Please do not copy/paste it and as a disclaimer, we are not responsible for approval or refusal of a visa based on the information provided in this article.

Applying for an eTA (Visa-Exempt Travelers)

If you’re from a visa-exempt country and arriving by air, follow these steps for an eTA:

1. Access the Application Portal here.
2. Complete the Form: Provide passport details, travel plans, and personal information.
3. Pay the Fee: CAD $7 via credit/debit card.
4. Submit and Wait: Most eTAs are approved within minutes, but allow a few days for potential reviews.
5. Receive Confirmation: The eTA is electronically linked to your passport.

Note: If entering Canada by land (e.g., from the U.S.), an eTA is not required, but carry a valid passport and proof of World Cup tickets or itinerary.

Tips for a Successful Visa Application For FIFA 2026

• Apply Early: Demand will surge as the tournament approaches. Start your application by the end of 2025 to avoid delays.
• Be Honest and Consistent: Discrepancies in your application or interview can lead to denial.
• Show Strong Ties to Home: Emphasize job, family, or property ties to prove you’ll leave Canada after the tournament.
• Include FIFA Details: Mention specific match dates (e.g., June 12 in Toronto) and provide ticket confirmations or a detailed itinerary.
• Prepare for Border Questions: Border officers may ask about your travel purpose, tickets, accommodations, and length of stay. Carry all documents, including proof of funds and return tickets.
• Check Health Requirements: Ensure vaccinations are up to date, as requirements may apply based on global conditions in 2026.

FIFA World Cup 2026 Schedule

Match Locations and Dates

• Toronto (BMO Field): Hosts six matches, including Canada’s opening game on June 12, 2026.
• Vancouver (BC Place): Hosts seven matches, including Canada games on July 18 and 24, plus a round-of-32 and round-of-16 match.
• Schedule: The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026, with matches across 16 cities in Canada, the U.S., and Mexico.

Securing Tickets

• Visa Presale Draw: From September 10–19, 2025, Visa cardholders can enter a lottery for approximately one million tickets covering all 104 games. Register with a FIFA ID. Successful applicants get a purchase slot in October.
• General Sales: Additional phases start October 27, 2025, with a first-come, first-served phase in early 2026. Prices start at USD $60 (CAD $82) for group-stage matches.
• CanadaRed Lottery: Canadian residents can join the CanadaRed supporters group for a chance at tickets to Canada’s games.
• Resale Platform: An official resale platform will launch in 2026 to buy/sell verified tickets at face value.
• Tip: Only purchase tickets through official channels to avoid scams. Tickets may be required as proof at the border.

Accommodation and Transportation

• Book Early: Hotels, hostels, and private rentals in Toronto and Vancouver will be in high demand. Consider boutique hotels or accommodations near stadiums (e.g., downtown Toronto for BMO Field).
• Transportation: Expect heavy traffic during the tournament. Use public transit (e.g., Toronto’s TTC or Vancouver’s SkyTrain) or shuttle services to stadiums.
• Cross-Border Travel: If attending matches in the U.S. or Mexico, secure separate visas. Wait times for U.S. visas can exceed 300–800 days in some countries (e.g., Colombia, India), so plan ahead.

Border Preparation

• What to Bring: Carry your passport, visa/eTA confirmation, World Cup tickets, proof of funds, accommodation details, and return tickets.
• What to Declare: Declare food, plants, or animals, as these can pose risks to Canada’s environment.
• Border Wait Times: Expect delays at land crossings during peak periods.

The FIFA World Cup 2026 promises to be a global celebration of soccer, culture, and unity.

With careful preparation, you’ll be ready to cheer for your team and create unforgettable memories at the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Canada.

Start your visa application today, and get ready to experience the beautiful game in Toronto and Vancouver!