Planning to Attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada? Here’s What You Need to Know About Visitor Visas and eTAs
Canada and the FIFA World Cup
The summer of 2026 is shaping up to be an unforgettable one, as Canada, the United States, and Mexico prepare to host the FIFA World Cup—one of the biggest sporting events in the world. From June 11 to July 19, 2026, a record-breaking 48 teams will compete across 16 host cities, with Canada hosting 13 matches in the vibrant cities of Toronto and Vancouver.
As the excitement builds, international fans planning to visit Canada need to prepare for more than just the matches. Whether you're flying in for a weekend or planning a month-long soccer pilgrimage, understanding Canada’s travel authorization requirements is crucial.
Do You Need a Visa or eTA to Enter Canada for the World Cup?
For those coming into Canada one of two travel authorizations will be needed, a Visitor Visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Your nationality and mode of travel will determine which one of the two you will need to obtain.
Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa - TRV)
The Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), or also commonly known as a visitor visa, is required for visa-required countries. This allows for short-term stays for tourism, including attending events like the FIFA World Cup. It can be single-entry or multiple-entry, with the latter being ideal for those planning to travel in and out of Canada during the tournament. Processing time for TRVs ranges between a few weeks to several months, the processing time is influenced by multiple factors including country of application, application completeness (incorrect or incomplete applications leading to delays), IRCC backlogs, and information verification with certain applications potentially requiring more information/proof in order to be processed. Currently, application fees start at $100 CAD according to the official IRCC website.
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)
Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) is required for visa-exempt nationals travelling to Canada by air. An eTA is linked to your passport and valid for multiple entries over up to five years or until the passport expires, making it ideal for World Cup travel. If you are visa-required and eligible for an eTA but already have a valid Canadian visa, you do not need to apply for an eTA, you may travel with your visa until it expires. Current processing time ranges between a couple minutes or up to several days, and current cost is $7 CAD.
Other Things to Consider For World Cup Fans
The official government of Canada website has a comprehensive list of which countries are visa-required or visa-exempt. A U.S. or Mexican visa does not guarantee entry into Canada and vice versa. When travelling across the three host countries you must meet each nation’s entry requirements separately.
There have been rumours going around about Canada rolling out a multiple-entry visa specifically for the World Cup, while that would be an exciting program to implement no such visa exists or has even been proposed by the Canadian government.
Final Thoughts
With the 2026 FIFA World Cup fast approaching, now is the perfect time to begin planning your Canadian adventure. Make sure your travel documents are in order so you can focus on what really matters—enjoying the beautiful game on the world’s biggest stage.
Whether you're cheering from the stands in Toronto or soaking up the energy in Vancouver, having the correct visitor visa or eTA will ensure your trip goes smoothly.
Need Help Navigating Canada’s Visa Programs?
Ayodele Law can help with:
Personalized application strategies
Support with document preparation and submission
Detailed eligibility assessments
📞 Contact us today for a consultation and find out how we can help you make it to Canada for the World Cup.