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FIFA World Cup 2026
FIFA World Cup 2026 Canada Visa Guide
Planning to attend the World Cup in Toronto or Vancouver? Get your Canada visitor visa or eTA sorted. Complete guide to requirements, processing times, and application tips for football fans traveling to Canada in 2026.
Host Cities
2 Cities
Total Matches
13 Matches
Tournament Period
June-July 2026
Visa Fee
$7-$100 CAD
Tournament Overview
World Cup 2026 in Canada: Toronto & Vancouver Matches
The FIFA World Cup 2026 will be the first tournament hosted by three nations: Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Canada will host 13 matches across two world-class cities, Toronto and Vancouver, bringing the beautiful game to millions of fans from around the globe.
Toronto will welcome football fans to BMO Field for 6 exciting matches, including group stage clashes and high-stakes knockout rounds. The stadium, home to Toronto FC, will be expanded to accommodate over 45,000 passionate supporters in the heart of Canada's largest city.
Vancouver's BC Place will host 7 matches, taking fans from the group stage all the way through to the quarterfinals. With a capacity of over 54,000, this retractable-roof stadium offers a stunning venue on Canada's west coast, combining world-class facilities with breathtaking mountain views.
The tournament runs from June 11 to July 19, 2026, giving fans the opportunity to experience Canadian summer at its finest while watching the world's best teams compete for football glory. Toronto and Vancouver will see matches throughout June and July, making this an unforgettable month for sports tourism in Canada.
Toronto
Venue: BMO Field
Matches: 6 matches
Capacity: 45,000+
Highlights: Group stage and knockout matches
Vancouver
Venue: BC Place
Matches: 7 matches
Capacity: 54,000+
Highlights: Group stage through to quarterfinals
Need Help with Your World Cup Visa?
Our RCIC-licensed consultants specialize in visitor visas for major events. We'll help you get to Canada for the World Cup on time.
Book ConsultationLearn About Visitor VisasRCIC License: R515110
Requirements
Do You Need a Visa to Attend World Cup in Canada?
Your visa requirement depends on your citizenship and passport
eTA Only (Lucky You!)
If you are from a visa-exempt country, you only need an eTA (electronic Travel Authorization). Quick, easy, and cheap.
- United States, UK, Australia
- Most European Union countries
- Japan, South Korea, Singapore
- Fee: $7 CAD
- Processing: Minutes to hours
Visitor Visa Required
If you need a visa to visit Canada, you must apply for a temporary resident visa. This requires documentation and time.
- India, China, Brazil, Mexico
- Nigeria, South Africa, Philippines
- Morocco, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam
- Fee: $100 CAD + $85 biometrics
- Processing: 2-16 weeks
Not Sure Which You Need?
Check the official IRCC website to confirm whether your country requires a visa or eTA for Canada. If in doubt, our consultants can verify your specific requirements based on your citizenship and travel plans.
Comparison
Visa vs eTA: Which Do You Need?
Understanding the key differences between eTA and visitor visa
| Feature | eTA | Visitor Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Who Needs It | Visa-exempt countries (US, UK, Australia, EU, Japan, etc.) | Countries requiring visa for Canada (India, China, Brazil, Mexico, etc.) |
| Application Fee | $7 CAD | $100 CAD |
| Processing Time | Minutes to hours | 2-16 weeks (varies by country) |
| Validity Period | Up to 5 years | Up to 10 years (typically 6 months) |
| Maximum Stay | Up to 6 months per entry | Up to 6 months per entry |
| Biometrics Required | No | Yes (most applicants) |
| Application Method | Online only | Online with documents |
| Documents Required | Passport only | Extensive documentation |
By Country
Country-by-Country Visa Requirements
Quick reference guide for popular football nations attending World Cup 2026
| Country | Requirement | Processing Time | Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| United States | eTA only | Minutes to hours | $7 CAD |
| United Kingdom | eTA only | Minutes to hours | $7 CAD |
| Australia | eTA only | Minutes to hours | $7 CAD |
| France | eTA only | Minutes to hours | $7 CAD |
| Germany | eTA only | Minutes to hours | $7 CAD |
| Japan | eTA only | Minutes to hours | $7 CAD |
| South Korea | eTA only | Minutes to hours | $7 CAD |
| Mexico | Visitor Visa | 2-4 weeks | $100 CAD |
| Brazil | Visitor Visa | 3-6 weeks | $100 CAD |
| Argentina | Visitor Visa | 3-6 weeks | $100 CAD |
| India | Visitor Visa | 8-12 weeks | $100 CAD |
| China | Visitor Visa | 6-10 weeks | $100 CAD |
| Nigeria | Visitor Visa | 8-16 weeks | $100 CAD |
| Morocco | Visitor Visa | 4-8 weeks | $100 CAD |
| Saudi Arabia | Visitor Visa | 4-8 weeks | $100 CAD |
* Processing times are approximate. For countries not listed, check the official IRCC website.
Step by Step
How to Apply for a Canada Visitor Visa for World Cup
Follow this timeline to ensure you get your visa in time for the matches
1
Determine Your Requirement (eTA or Visa)
6-12 months before travelCheck if you need an eTA or a visitor visa based on your citizenship. Most visa-exempt countries only need an eTA (electronic Travel Authorization), while others require a full visitor visa.
2
Book Your World Cup Tickets
4-10 months before travelPurchase your FIFA World Cup tickets through the official FIFA ticketing platform. You will need proof of tickets for your visa application to show your intent to attend matches.
3
Book Accommodation
3-8 months before travelReserve your hotel or accommodation in Toronto or Vancouver. Include booking confirmations in your visa application as proof of travel arrangements and ties.
4
Gather Required Documents
3-6 months before travelCollect your passport, photos, proof of funds, employment letter, travel itinerary, World Cup tickets, hotel bookings, and any other supporting documents.
5
Submit Your Application
2-4 months before travelApply for your eTA online (if eligible) or submit your visitor visa application online with all supporting documents. Pay the application fee and biometrics fee if required.
6
Attend Biometrics Appointment (if required)
1-3 months before travelIf applying for a visitor visa, you may need to visit a visa application centre to provide fingerprints and photo. This is not required for eTA applications.
7
Receive Decision and Plan Travel
2-8 weeks before travelOnce approved, finalize your travel plans. Book flights, confirm accommodations, and prepare for your World Cup experience in Canada.
Timeline
Processing Times & When to Apply
Plan ahead to ensure you receive your visa before your World Cup trip
Recommended Application Timeline
eTA Applicants
Apply at least 72 hours before your flight. Most eTAs are approved within minutes, but some may take longer for additional review.
Fast-Processing Countries (US, Europe)
Apply at least 6-8 weeks before your trip. Processing typically takes 2-4 weeks, but allow extra time for unexpected delays.
Standard Processing Countries (India, China, Brazil)
Apply at least 3-4 months before your trip. Processing can take 8-12 weeks, and high demand during World Cup season may cause delays.
Slower Processing Countries (Nigeria, Pakistan)
Apply at least 4-6 months before your trip. Processing can take 12-16 weeks or longer, especially during peak travel seasons.
Apply As Early As Possible!
The World Cup will create unprecedented demand for Canadian visas. Processing times may be significantly longer than normal. Do not wait until the last minute to apply, or you may miss your matches.
Start Your Application NowDocumentation
Required Documents for World Cup Visitors
Prepare these documents for your visitor visa application
Valid passport (must be valid for duration of your stay)
Two recent passport-sized photos
FIFA World Cup tickets (official confirmation)
Hotel/accommodation booking confirmations
Flight reservations (round-trip)
Proof of financial support (bank statements, credit cards)
Employment letter or proof of ties to home country
Travel itinerary including match schedule
Purpose of visit letter explaining World Cup attendance
Travel insurance (recommended)
Invitation letter from friends/family in Canada (if applicable)
Previous travel history (passport stamps, visas)
Success Tips
Tips for Successful Visa Application
Follow these tips to maximize your chances of visa approval
Apply Early
Start your visa application at least 3-4 months before your travel date. Processing times may be longer during the World Cup period due to high demand.
Include World Cup Evidence
Clearly demonstrate your purpose is to attend the World Cup. Include your official FIFA tickets, match schedule, and a detailed itinerary of your trip.
Show Strong Finances
Provide bank statements showing sufficient funds to cover your entire trip, including match tickets, accommodation, meals, and activities. At least $2,000-$3,000 is recommended.
Prove You Will Return Home
Strong ties to your home country are crucial. Include employment letters, property ownership, family ties, or enrollment in school to show you will return after the tournament.
Be Honest and Accurate
Provide truthful information in your application. Any false or misleading information can result in a refusal and potential ban from future applications.
Get Travel Insurance
While not mandatory for visitor visas, travel insurance is highly recommended. It covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and provides peace of mind during your visit.
Planning
Accommodation & Travel Planning
Tips for booking hotels and planning your World Cup trip
Accommodation Tips
- Book early as hotels fill up quickly during major events
- Consider areas near public transit for easy access to stadiums
- Toronto: Downtown, Yorkville, or areas near BMO Field
- Vancouver: Downtown, Yaletown, or near BC Place
- Use reputable booking platforms and keep confirmation emails
- Budget $150-$400+ per night depending on location and quality
- Consider Airbnb or vacation rentals for groups
- Book refundable options when possible in case visa is delayed
Toronto Neighborhoods
- Downtown: Walk to BMO Field area
- Yorkville: Upscale, close to transit
- Entertainment District: Restaurants, nightlife
- Harbourfront: Waterfront views, attractions
Vancouver Neighborhoods
- Downtown: BC Place is here
- Yaletown: Trendy, walkable area
- Gastown: Historic, restaurants
- Coal Harbour: Waterfront, scenic views
Refusals
What If Your Visa is Refused?
Understanding refusal reasons and your options
Common Refusal Reasons
- Insufficient proof of financial support
- Weak ties to home country (no employment, property, or family)
- Lack of travel history or previous visa refusals
- Incomplete application or missing documents
- Concerns about intent to leave Canada after World Cup
- Invalid or expiring passport
- Previous immigration violations or overstays
- Criminal record or security concerns
- Medical inadmissibility
- Inconsistent information in application
What You Can Do
If your visa is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the specific reasons. Read this letter carefully to understand why your application was not approved.
You can reapply for a visitor visa, but you must address the concerns mentioned in the refusal letter. Simply resubmitting the same application will likely result in another refusal.
Strengthen your reapplication by:
- •Providing additional proof of ties to your home country (property deeds, business ownership, family commitments)
- •Showing more financial support (higher bank balances, sponsorship letters, proof of income)
- •Including a detailed explanation letter addressing the refusal reasons
- •Ensuring all information is accurate, complete, and truthful
Our RCIC-licensed consultants specialize in helping clients with refused applications. We can review your refusal letter, identify weaknesses, and help you build a stronger case for reapplication.
Get Help with RefusalFAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything you need to know about attending World Cup 2026 in Canada
Do I need a visa to attend the FIFA World Cup 2026 in Canada?
It depends on your citizenship. Citizens of visa-exempt countries (like the US, UK, Australia, most EU countries) only need an eTA (electronic Travel Authorization), which costs $7 CAD and is processed within minutes to hours. Citizens of countries that require visas for Canada (like India, China, Brazil, Mexico, Nigeria) must apply for a visitor visa, which costs $100 CAD and takes several weeks to process. Check the official IRCC website to confirm your specific requirements.
How long does it take to get a Canada visitor visa for the World Cup?
Processing times vary significantly by country. Applications from the United States typically take 2-3 weeks, while applications from India may take 8-12 weeks, and from Nigeria up to 16 weeks. During the World Cup period, processing times may be longer due to increased demand. We recommend applying at least 3-4 months before your planned travel date to ensure you receive your visa in time.
What is the difference between an eTA and a visitor visa?
An eTA (electronic Travel Authorization) is a quick online authorization for visa-exempt foreign nationals traveling to Canada by air. It costs $7 CAD, is processed within minutes to hours, and is valid for 5 years. A visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa) is required for citizens of countries that are not visa-exempt. It costs $100 CAD, requires detailed documentation, biometrics, and takes several weeks to process. Both allow you to visit Canada for up to 6 months.
Which Canadian cities will host World Cup 2026 matches?
Canada will host matches in Toronto and Vancouver. Toronto's BMO Field will host 6 matches including group stage and knockout rounds, with a capacity of over 45,000. Vancouver's BC Place will host 7 matches from group stage through quarterfinals, with a capacity of over 54,000. Both cities will see matches throughout June and July 2026.
Do I need to show proof of World Cup tickets for my visa application?
Yes, you should include your official FIFA World Cup ticket confirmation as part of your visa application. This serves as strong evidence of your purpose of visit and travel plans. Include the ticket confirmation, match schedule, and a detailed itinerary showing which matches you plan to attend in Toronto or Vancouver.
How much money do I need to show for a World Cup visitor visa?
While there is no official minimum, you should demonstrate sufficient funds to cover your entire trip. This includes World Cup tickets, accommodation, flights, meals, local transportation, and activities. We recommend showing at least $2,000-$3,000 CAD in available funds, or more depending on the length of your stay. Provide recent bank statements (last 3-6 months) as proof.
Can I visit both Toronto and Vancouver on one visa?
Yes! A Canadian visitor visa or eTA allows you to travel anywhere in Canada. If you have tickets to matches in both Toronto and Vancouver, you can visit both cities on the same visa. Make sure your itinerary and accommodation bookings reflect your plans to visit multiple cities.
What if my visa application is refused?
If your visitor visa is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons. Common reasons include insufficient ties to home country, inadequate financial proof, or concerns about your intent to leave Canada. You can reapply, but you must address the specific concerns mentioned in the refusal letter. Our consultants can help you strengthen your application for resubmission.
When should I apply for my Canada visa for the World Cup?
Apply as early as possible, ideally 3-4 months before your planned travel date. If you need a visitor visa (not just eTA), apply as soon as you have your World Cup tickets and accommodation bookings confirmed. Processing times may be longer during peak World Cup travel season, so early application is critical to ensure you receive your visa in time.
Do I need travel insurance to visit Canada for the World Cup?
Travel insurance is not mandatory for visitor visas (unlike the Super Visa), but it is highly recommended. Medical care in Canada can be extremely expensive for visitors. Travel insurance covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and other unexpected issues. Many policies cost $50-$150 for short trips and provide valuable peace of mind.
Can I work in Canada while attending the World Cup?
No, a visitor visa or eTA does not permit you to work in Canada. These are for tourism and temporary visits only. If you work while in Canada on a visitor visa, you could face serious consequences including deportation and future travel bans. If you want to work in Canada, you must apply for a work permit.
What happens if my flight is to the United States but I want to drive to Canada for matches?
If you are flying to the US and driving into Canada, you will need authorization for both countries. Make sure you have a valid US visa or ESTA (if applicable) and also obtain your Canada eTA or visitor visa. At the land border, present your passport, Canada authorization, World Cup tickets, and proof of accommodation in Canada.
Ready to Experience World Cup 2026 in Canada?
Do not let visa issues keep you from the matches of a lifetime. Our RCIC-licensed consultants specialize in visitor visas for major events. We will make sure you get to Canada in time for kickoff.