Canada Streamlines Entry for FIFA World Cup 2026 Personnel with Special Visa Measures

Canada is rolling out special visa measures to facilitate the entry of foreign workers crucial to the 2026 FIFA World Cup and the 76th FIFA Congress. These initiatives aim to simplify immigration processes for individuals whose contributions are vital to the successful execution of these major international events, which will see matches hosted in Toronto and Vancouver.

Key Takeaways

• Targeted public policy offers work permit exemptions for select foreign nationals.

• Exemptions apply to individuals invited by FIFA to perform essential work.

• Measures are in effect from December 1, 2025, to July 31, 2026.

• All other standard immigration admissibility and eligibility requirements remain in place.

Special Work Permit Exemptions

Canada has introduced a temporary public policy designed to streamline the entry of foreign nationals supporting the FIFA Congress and World Cup. This policy grants limited work-permit exemptions for individuals invited by FIFA, ensuring that essential personnel can enter Canada without the usual work permit requirements. This measure is intended to simplify immigration processing for those whose work is critical to the event's operations.

Eligibility Criteria

Delegated immigration officers can grant these exemptions to foreign nationals who meet specific conditions:

• Travel Window: The individual must have applied for a temporary resident visa and intend to enter and depart Canada between December 1, 2025, and July 31, 2026. Those already planning to enter within this period also qualify.

• Official FIFA Invitation: A letter of invitation from FIFA is required, confirming that the individual will perform "work" directly supporting an official FIFA-organized event during the approved dates. The letter must also state that the individual is:An employee of FIFA or an affiliate.Under contract for goods and services with FIFA or an affiliate.Subcontracted by one of the aforementioned entities.

• FIFA Microsite Listing: The individual's name must appear on FIFA's designated microsite as an officially invited participant.

Regulations Temporarily Exempted

Eligible foreign nationals will be exempt from the following regulations:

• Paragraph 183(1)(b): The rule prohibiting work without authorization.

• Section 196: The requirement to hold a work permit or otherwise be authorized to work in Canada.

These exemptions are valid until July 31, 2026, or until the policy is revoked, whichever occurs first.

Admissibility Requirements Remain

It is crucial to note that while work permit requirements are waived for eligible individuals, all other standard Canadian immigration law requirements, including admissibility and eligibility criteria, must still be met. This includes security and medical checks. Individuals from visa-required countries must still apply for a temporary resident visa.

Coordination with the United States

In parallel, the United States has launched its "FIFA Pass" initiative, an expedited visa system for World Cup ticket holders. This coordinated effort between host countries aims to ensure smooth entry for workers, officials, and fans across North America, highlighting the scale of the event and the growing international cooperation among the host nations.

Sources

• Canada Introduces Special Work Permit Exemptions for FIFA 2026 Congress & World Cup, Newland Chase.

• Canada Introduces Special Visa Measures For FIFA World Cup, Immigration.ca.