Key Takeaways
- Canada will host 13 FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in Toronto and Vancouver between June 11 and July 19, 2026.
- Non-citizens of Canada may require a visitor visa or electronic travel authorization (eTA) as well as a work permit to enter and attend the FIFA World Cup.
- The requirements for entry into Canada depend on nationality, method of travel, and purpose of travel.
- Certain groups, such as players, media personnel, and FIFA-invited volunteers, may be exempt from requiring a work permit but may still need a visitor visa or eTA.
- Travellers with a criminal record may be denied entry into Canada, but options such as temporary resident permits (TRPs) or criminal rehabilitation may be available.
Introduction to the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Canada
The FIFA World Cup 2026 is scheduled to take place in Canada between June 11 and July 19, 2026, with 13 matches being hosted in Toronto and Vancouver. As a result, many fans, workers, and volunteers will be travelling to Canada to attend the event. However, non-citizens of Canada may require authorization to enter the country, which can include a visitor visa, electronic travel authorization (eTA), or a work permit. The requirements for entry into Canada depend on various factors, including nationality, method of travel, and purpose of travel.
Attending the FIFA World Cup 2026 as a Fan
For fans travelling to Canada to attend the FIFA World Cup 2026, a visitor visa or eTA may be required, depending on their citizenship and method of travel. A visitor visa is an official document stamped in a traveller’s passport, while an eTA is an electronic entry requirement for visa-exempt foreign nationals travelling to Canada by air. The processing time for a visitor visa can take longer than for an eTA, so it is recommended to apply early to ensure authorization is received before the event. US citizens, green card holders, and French nationals residing in and arriving directly from St. Pierre and Miquelon do not require a visitor visa or eTA, but must have proper documentation, such as a valid passport.
Working or Volunteering at the FIFA World Cup 2026
Certain groups, such as players, media personnel, and FIFA-invited volunteers, may be exempt from requiring a work permit to enter Canada. However, they may still need a visitor visa or eTA, depending on their citizenship and method of travel. Those who have not been invited by FIFA to work at an official FIFA-organized event may need to apply for a work permit, which depends on the type of work being done at the event. It is recommended to check in advance to determine the requirements for entry into Canada.
Travelling to Canada with a Criminal Record
Travellers with a criminal record should be aware that Canada has strict admissibility rules and may be denied entry if they are considered criminally inadmissible under Canadian law. This can include past convictions, charges, or having committed an offence, even if it occurred outside Canada or is considered minor in another country. Options such as temporary resident permits (TRPs) or criminal rehabilitation may be available, but processing times can be lengthy, so it is recommended to review the situation well in advance.
Other Considerations
In addition to the requirements for entry into Canada, there are other considerations for fans, workers, and volunteers attending the FIFA World Cup 2026. Processing times for visitor visas, eTAs, and work permits can vary depending on the country, and certain items, such as animals, tobacco, or currency in excess of $10,000, must be declared when entering Canada. Early planning is strongly advised to increase the chances of getting the necessary documentation on time. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has created a dedicated webpage for foreign nationals looking to visit or work in Canada temporarily for the event, which provides more information on the requirements and process.
Conclusion
In conclusion, attending the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Canada as a fan, worker, or volunteer requires careful planning and consideration of the requirements for entry into Canada. The type of authorization required depends on various factors, including nationality, method of travel, and purpose of travel. It is recommended to apply early and to check in advance to determine the requirements for entry into Canada. By doing so, fans, workers, and volunteers can ensure a smooth and successful trip to the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Canada.