US Embassy in Colombia Announces Visa Priority for World Cup Ticket Holders

Written on 01/22/2026
Luis Felipe Mendoza

The United States Embassy in Colombia has announced that it will offer priority visa appointments for soccer fans who have secured tickets for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Credit: AP/ColombiaOne.

The United States Embassy in Colombia has announced that it will offer priority visa appointments for soccer fans who have secured tickets for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The diplomatic mission released a statement on its official profile celebrating the news for travelers. “Excellent news for FIFA World Cup 2026 ticket holders traveling to the United States this year! We offer you priority access to U.S. visa appointments,” the Embassy stated.

Ticket holders will have a US visa priority for the World Cup thanks to FIFA Pass

The visa priority system is accessible through the FIFA Pass mechanism. This option is available to individuals who purchased their tickets directly through the official FIFA website, provided they complete their registration correctly and ensure the information supplied remains consistent.

Applicants must initiate the process through the specific State Department website for the World Cup. Travelers must select their country of nationality or residence and complete the DS-160 online form, ensuring that all data matches the information previously registered with FIFA.

There is a specific procedural requirement for accessing these expedited slots. If the system asks during the transaction whether the person is a holder of a FIFA ticket, the applicant must respond affirmatively. Following this step, applicants must schedule their interview, upload a recent photograph, and pay the corresponding fee.

2026 World Cup goers will receive the standard B1/B2 visa

The Embassy clarified that the required travel document is a B1/B2 tourism and business visa. This visa class permits activities such as vacations, visiting family members, shopping, receiving medical treatment, or attending international events such as the World Cup.

However, officials emphasized strict limitations regarding the visa’s use. B1/B2 holders cannot work or study with this document. The maximum permitted stay is six months, and remaining in the United States beyond this period will result in a sanction prohibiting entry into the country for 10 years.

The logistical push comes as the Colombian National Team prepares for matches in both Mexico and the United States. While Colombia’s first two games against Uzbekistan and a second opponent will take place in Mexico City and Guadalajara, the team is scheduled to face Portugal on Saturday, June 27, in Miami. This game is already the one with the highest demand in the tournament.

Despite the expedited scheduling, officials warned that the outcome is not automatic. U.S. authorities reminded applicants that having a ticket does not guarantee visa approval, as all cases are evaluated under the same standard security and verification procedures.