Canada will host 13 FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in Toronto and Vancouver from June 11 to July 19, 2026. If you are planning to attend the event as a fan, volunteer, or worker, it is important to check what documents you need to enter Canada.
Do You Need a Visa or eTA to Visit Canada?
Most travelers who are not Canadian citizens may need a visitor visa or an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada. What you need depends on your nationality, how you are travelling (by air, land, or sea), and the reason for your visit.
- A visitor visa is a stamp in your passport that allows you to temporarily visit Canada.
- An eTA is an electronic entry approval for travelers from visa-exempt countries flying to Canada. It is linked to your passport online.
Tip: Visitor visas usually take weeks or months to process, while eTAs can take minutes or days. Apply early to avoid missing the World Cup.
Special Cases:
- If you are a US citizen or green card holder, or a French citizen from St. Pierre and Miquelon, you do not need a visa or eTA. You only need proper identification, such as a passport (and green card for US residents).
- FIFA tickets do not guarantee entry. You still need the correct visa or eTA.
How to Indicate Your FIFA Travel in Your Application
- For eTA applicants, write “FIFA World Cup 26” in the “Background Questions” section.
- For visitor visa applicants, include “FIFA World Cup 26” in the “Tell us more about what you’ll do in Canada” section.
This is only for tracking purposes and does not speed up your application or guarantee entry.
Working or Volunteering at the FIFA World Cup
Some people can work or volunteer in Canada without a work permit. This includes:
- Players and match staff (FIFA players, referees, and team personnel).
- Media and broadcast personnel invited by FIFA.
- FIFA-invited volunteers and workers.
Even if you do not need a work permit, you may still need a visitor visa or eTA, depending on your nationality and travel method. Always check before traveling.
Workers Who May Need a Work Permit
If you are not officially invited by FIFA, you may need a work permit depending on the type of work you will do at the World Cup. You may also still need a visitor visa or eTA.
Traveling to Canada With a Criminal Record
Canada has strict rules for criminal records. Even minor offenses in other countries may prevent entry. Travelers can sometimes overcome this by:
- Applying for a Temporary Resident Permit (TRP) if you have a strong reason to visit.
- Applying for Criminal Rehabilitation or Deemed Rehabilitation.
Note that these applications take time and are not guaranteed. A football match may not be considered a “compelling reason” for a TRP.
Other Things to Keep in Mind
- Visa, eTA, and work permit processing times vary by country.
- Certain items like animals, tobacco, alcohol, and large amounts of cash must be declared at the border.
- You must have a valid travel document.
- Plan early to ensure your documents arrive on time.
For more details, visit the official IRCC webpage on the FIFA World Cup 2026.
Do I need a FIFA ticket to apply for a visa or eTA?
No. Your ticket is not required to apply, and holding one does not guarantee entry.
Can I travel without a visa if I’m from the US?
Yes. US citizens and green card holders do not need a visa or eTA but must carry proper identification.
How long does it take to get a visitor visa or eTA?
An eTA usually takes minutes or days, while a visitor visa can take weeks or months. Apply early.
Do volunteers need a work permit?
If you are invited by FIFA, you do not need a work permit, but you may still need a visa or eTA.
What if I have a criminal record?
Canada may deny entry for certain convictions. Options like a TRP or Criminal Rehabilitation may help, but processing can take a long time.
