From June 11th to July 19th, 2026, Canada will host 13 matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026 in two major cities: Toronto and Vancouver.

If you're planning to travel to Canada to watch soccer, volunteer, or work at the World Cup, foreigners should check early whether they need a visa, eTA, or work permit to avoid delays.

Chính phủ Canada thông qua IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) đã thiết lập một trang thông tin riêng nhằm hỗ trợ du khách và người lao động quốc tế tham dự sự kiện này.

1. What documents are needed to travel to Canada to watch the 2026 World Cup as a spectator?

Nếu đến Canada chỉ để xem các trận đấu, người nước ngoài có thể cần visitor visa (visa du lịch) hoặc eTA, tùy vào quốc tịch và cách nhập cảnh.

Visitor Visa (Visa du lịch Canada) là gì?

• It's a visa that's stamped directly into your passport.
• This applies to citizens of countries that require a visa to enter Canada.
• The processing time typically ranges from a few weeks to a few months.

What is eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization)?

• It is an electronic entry permit.
• This applies to citizens of visa-exempt countries when flying into Canada by air.
• Processing time typically ranges from a few minutes to a few days.

IRCC recommends submitting applications as early as possible, as a significant increase in applications is expected ahead of the 2026 World Cup.

2. Who is exempt from visa and eTA requirements?

The following individuals do not require a visitor visa or eTA to enter Canada:

• U.S. citizens.
• A person who holds a US Green Card.
• French citizens residing in Saint-Pierre and Miquelon who enter directly from this area.

However, the above subjects still need:

• Valid passport.
• Holders of U.S. green cards must present documentation proving their lawful residency in the United States.

3. Do I need a World Cup ticket to apply for a visa or eTA?

No

• Football tickets are not required to submit a visa or eTA application.
• Having a World Cup ticket does not guarantee application approval.

4. Should I state my purpose for attending the FIFA World Cup on my application?

IRCC encourages you to clearly state if the purpose of your trip is to attend the FIFA World Cup 2026:

• eTA profile: write “FIFA World Cup 26” in the section Background Questions.
• Hồ sơ visitor visa: ghi nội dung này trong mục Tell us more about what you'll do in Canada.

Important Note:

• This information is for statistical purposes only.
• This does not help prioritize the application process and does not waive entry requirements.

5. Working or volunteering at the FIFA World Cup 2026: Do I need a work permit?

These groups are exempt from work permit requirements.

The following individuals may not need a work permit if they receive an official invitation from FIFA:

• Players, coaches, referees, and technical staff.
• FIFA invited personnel from the media, press, and broadcasting departments.
• Volunteers are invited directly by FIFA.
• Workers who work at events officially organized by FIFA.

Even if exempt from work permit requirements, these individuals may still need a visitor visa or eTA, depending on their nationality.

6. In what cases is a work permit still required?

For whom:

• Not directly invited by FIFA, or
• Working for third-party entities, contractors, or external service providers outside of the main event.

A work permit may be required, depending on the specific type of work.

Even if you don't need a work permit, you may still need to apply for a visa or eTA.

7. Can someone with a criminal record enter Canada?

Canada has very strict entry regulations.

Foreign nationals may be denied entry if:

• Having a prior criminal record (including minor offenses in other countries).
• Currently under prosecution or having committed a crime, even if it occurred a long time ago.

Canada assesses criminal behavior based on Canadian law, not on its severity in other countries.

8. Other important things to note when going to Canada to watch the World Cup

• Visa, eTA, and work permit processing times vary by country.
• Certain items must be declared upon entry:
  • Cash amounts exceeding 10,000 CAD.
  • Alcohol and tobacco consumption exceeded permitted levels.
  • Animals, special foods.
• Whether you're traveling as a spectator, worker, or volunteer, you are required to have valid entry documents.
• Preparing early helps reduce the risk of late applications or rejection.

9. Conclusion

The FIFA World Cup 2026 is a global sporting event, resulting in a massive influx of people into Canada. Identifying the correct visa, eTA, or work permit is crucial for a smooth trip.

Those planning to attend should check their eligibility and prepare their application early, especially if they are coming to Canada for work or volunteer purposes.