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What To Know
- As excitement builds for the FIFA World Cup 2026, UAE residents planning to travel to the United States have been urged to begin their visa preparations early, with the US Embassy warning that small mistakes could lead to costly delays.
- The embassy advises travellers to start preparing documents immediately, follow official guidance closely, and keep an eye on updates expected in early 2026, when full details of the FIFA PASS system are scheduled to be released.
- Despite these uncertainties, officials confirmed that the system is being designed to ensure all World Cup ticket holders who require a visa can complete their interviews in time for the tournament.
As excitement builds for the FIFA World Cup 2026, UAE residents planning to travel to the United States have been urged to begin their visa preparations early, with the US Embassy warning that small mistakes could lead to costly delays.
The tournament, set to take place across the US in June and July 2026, is expected to draw millions of international visitors. With demand for US visas likely to surge, embassy officials have stressed the importance of accuracy, documentation, and early planning — especially for football fans in the UAE.
In guidance shared with local media, the embassy highlighted that errors on visa application forms remain one of the most common reasons for delays. Applicants are advised to carefully review all requirements and ensure that forms are completed accurately, with supporting documents prepared well in advance.
The advice also applies to families travelling with children, as minors often require additional paperwork and coordination. Embassy officials cautioned that overlooking these details could complicate travel plans as the tournament approaches.
To support World Cup travellers, the US Department of State is developing a FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (PASS). This system will allow confirmed ticket holders to access priority visa interview slots. However, the embassy clarified that standard vetting rules will still apply, including proof of financial stability and clear travel plans.
Several aspects of the new system are still being finalised. Open questions include how match tickets will be verified, whether applicants with existing far-off appointments can switch to priority slots, how many appointments will be available, and whether families can book linked interviews.
Despite these uncertainties, officials confirmed that the system is being designed to ensure all World Cup ticket holders who require a visa can complete their interviews in time for the tournament.
For now, UAE residents are strongly encouraged not to wait for further announcements. The embassy advises travellers to start preparing documents immediately, follow official guidance closely, and keep an eye on updates expected in early 2026, when full details of the FIFA PASS system are scheduled to be released.
With early preparation, football fans can focus on the matches — not last-minute visa stress.
