Introduction
In a bid to facilitate seamless entry for visitors attending the FIFA World Cup, the United States government is introducing a new system that prioritizes visa interviews for ticket holders. This initiative was revealed following a meeting among FIFA President Gianni Infantino, U.S. President Donald Trump, and members of the White House Task Force.
FIFA PASS Initiative
Named the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System or FIFA PASS, this program aims to accommodate travelers while navigating the complexities of a stringent immigration framework.
“America welcomes the world,”
Infantino stated, emphasizing the tournament’s essence of inclusivity and its aim to be the most welcoming FIFA World Cup ever.
Tournament Details
The tournament, scheduled to take place across eleven U.S. cities, will feature 78 matches split among 48 teams, including guaranteed spots for the host nations: the U.S., Canada, and Mexico, alongside competitors from across the globe, who are now finalizing their qualification efforts.
Ticket Sales and Preparation
Since the beginning of ticket sales in October, FIFA has reported a remarkable uptick in demand, surpassing one million ticket sales shortly after launching, with the second phase of ticket sales commencing in late October. As excitement builds, the World Cup’s group-stage draw is slated for December 5, a key event for determining matchups.
President Trump has urged prospective travelers to apply for their visa appointments as soon as possible, emphasizing the importance of early preparation for a smooth journey to the tournament.
