Travelling to the USA at the best of times has never been a simple task, but in the current climate, it is arguably more complicated than it ever has been.
Since Donald Trump became the US President for the second time in 2024, immigration laws have changed considerably. Travel bans and restrictions have been placed on tourists from 75 countries worldwide, while ICE agents have been tasked with investigating and deporting undocumented immigrants.
As a result, many football fans across the world have become concerned about safety protocols at the 2026 World Cup. To try to alleviate some of these concerns, our World Cup document guidance below should help.
Former FIFA president Sepp Blatter slams the U.S. hosting of the 2026 World Cup 🇺🇸🌍
— Micky Jnr (@MickyJnr__) February 22, 2026
Says a country that “does not grant visas to everyone” shouldn’t stage a World Cup, calls U.S. policy discriminatory and claims 78 of 104 matches being played on American soil is “not normal.” pic.twitter.com/PW6xWgUOYE
Documents that fans need at the 2026 World Cup
Passport
The first non-negotiable that you need to enter the USA this summer is a valid passport. For entry to the USA, the passport must be within six months of its expiry date, so make sure you check this in plenty of time before you travel, so that you can get a renewal if necessary.
Visa/ESTA
Depending on where you are coming from and your personal situation, you are going to need either a visa or an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization).
If you are coming from a country that is part of the US Visa Waiver Program (VWP), you are eligible to apply for an ESTA as opposed to a visa. An ESTA can be used if you are staying in the USA for 90 days or less.
If you are coming from a country that isn't part of the VWP, then you need to obtain a visa in order to enter the USA.
ESTAs are a lot easier to obtain and cheaper than full visas, so make sure to check if your country is part of the VWP before applying for a visa, as it could save you money and time.
Proof of return travel
Another document that will be checked when you arrive in the USA is your proof of return travel. Immigration officers require proof that you have return travel booked within 90 days of your arrival date to ensure that you aren't planning on sticking around.
Match ticket
A FIFA World Cup match ticket isn't necessary to enter the USA this summer, but it is to enter any of the host stadiums. The good thing about World Cup tickets is that they are digital, so as long as you have your phone fully charged, you won't be able to forget them.
FGG says: Keep all documents with you at all times
In years gone by, it would have been perfectly normal to put your travel documents away in a safe place after passing through border control. However, given the current climate in the USA, we would advise you to keep your travel documents with you at all times.
ICE agents have the authority to stop anyone at any time, so it makes sense to always have proof of who you are and your right to be in the country with you.