Canada Gears Up to Welcome the World for FIFA World Cup 26™

Canada is getting ready to host a major global soccer event — the FIFA World Cup 26™ — alongside the United States and Mexico. The tournament will bring matches to Canadian cities, and the government is calling on fans and visitors from around the world to plan ahead. (Canada)

What the Plan Means

• Canada will host 13 matches during the World Cup 2026 in cities such as Toronto and Vancouver. (Canada)
• Fans, players, officials, teams, media, and volunteers from a wide range of countries will travel to Canada. Because of this, IRCC is urging everyone to apply early for the required travel documents — such as a visa or an electronic travel authorization (eTA) — to avoid delays. (Canada)
• Importantly: Holding a match ticket is NOT enough to guarantee entry. Even with a ticket, travellers must have valid immigration documentation. (Canada)

What Support Is in Place

To make this big event welcoming and smooth:

• Canada is working closely with FIFA and federal partners to handle immigration screening and border procedures efficiently. (Canada)
• Special guidance and a dedicated World Cup 26™ page have been set up to help travellers understand visa, eTA, and entry requirements. (Canada)

Why It Matters

This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. Hosting the World Cup helps Canada show its diversity and hospitality to the world, while giving soccer fans from everywhere a chance to join a global celebration on Canadian soil. (Canada)

At the same time, proper planning is essential: with millions of people likely travelling, applying early gives visitors the best chance to get the right travel documents and avoid surprises.

Ready to Plan Your Visit?

If you’re thinking of being part of FIFA World Cup 26™ in Canada — whether as a fan, volunteer, supporter, or media — now is the time to start your travel application process (visa or eTA).

For help with visa procedures, tips for newcomers, or travel-ready guidance in Canada — check out Sehliglobal.ca. Let’s make sure you don’t just have a match ticket, but the right paperwork too.