CANADA TO REQUIRE TRV OR ETA FOR THE 2026 WORLD CUP: APPLY EARLY TO AVOID DELAYS
Immigration Rules for the World’s Biggest Tournament
As excitement builds for the FIFA World Cup 2026, which will be jointly hosted by Canada, the United States, and Mexico, Canadian authorities have issued an important reminder for international fans: entry requirements remain unchanged. Every visitor to Canada will need either a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA), depending on nationality.
Unlike some past tournaments where host nations introduced a special Fan ID system to streamline entry, Canada has confirmed that no such system will be in place. This means visitors must follow the standard immigration procedures. With millions of fans expected to travel across North America, early preparation will be critical to ensure smooth entry and avoid long delays.
Key Points
Mandatory requirement: TRV or eTA for all international visitors to Canada.
No Fan ID system: Traditional visa and authorization procedures apply.
Application urgency: Fans are strongly encouraged to apply months in advance.
Cross-border challenges: The U.S. and Mexico will apply their own immigration rules, meaning fans may need multiple documents to follow their teams.
Processing times: High demand could lead to delays in 2026 if applications are left too late.
Why This Matters for International Fans
For global supporters planning to attend the World Cup, this announcement means no shortcuts to entry. A TRV requires a formal visa application with supporting documents, while an eTA, though simpler, still must be approved before travel. Fans who fail to secure the proper documentation risk being denied boarding their flight or refused entry at the border.
Moreover, because the 2026 World Cup will be hosted across three countries, travelers may need to prepare for multiple sets of immigration rules. For example, a fan might attend a match in Vancouver, then travel to Los Angeles or Mexico City to watch their team play. This will require careful planning and compliance with each country’s requirements, making the process more complex than previous single-country tournaments.
Preparing Early: A Smart Strategy
Canadian immigration officials stress that visitors should not wait until the last minute. Applications for TRVs can take weeks or even months, depending on the applicant’s home country and processing backlogs. eTAs, while often processed quickly, can also face unexpected delays or refusals if errors are made.
Fans should begin planning their trips well in advance, ensuring their passports are valid and that they apply for the correct document based on nationality. Those traveling with families should also confirm requirements for minors, as children need their own visas or eTAs to enter Canada.
Enjoy the World Cup Without Immigration Stress
The 2026 FIFA World Cup promises to be one of the largest sporting events in history, bringing millions of fans together across North America. For Canada, the message is clear: standard entry requirements remain in place, and preparation is essential.
👉 If you’re planning to attend, don’t risk delays or complications. 👉 Contact Global Opportunities today we can guide you through the TRV or eTA process, ensuring your documents are in order so you can focus on enjoying the excitement of the World Cup.