
The Digest:
The United States has launched a priority visa appointment system for 2026 FIFA World Cup ticket holders, enabling faster interview scheduling through the FIFA PASS program, though it does not guarantee visa approval.
Key Points:
- President Donald Trump announced the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS).
- The program grants ticket holders expedited visa interview slots from early 2026.
- Secretary of State Marco Rubio emphasized tickets don’t guarantee visas—only faster appointments.
- Over 400 additional consular officers have been deployed to reduce global visa wait times.
- In 80% of countries, appointment wait times have fallen to under 60 days.
- The US will host 78 matches across 11 cities during the 48-team tournament.
- FIFA President Gianni Infantino praised the move toward “the most inclusive World Cup.”
Sources: The Cable, US State Department