US Visa Tips for FIFA 2026 Fans

US Visa Application: Why Act Now for FIFA 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is drawing closer, and excitement is building among football fans residing in the United Arab Emirates. For the first time in the World Cup history, three countries—the United States, Canada, and Mexico—will host the tournament together, with a 48-team lineup promising more matches, venues, and a larger audience. For those wishing to follow the events in person, the first and most crucial step isn't buying tickets—but starting the US visa application timely.

Historic Interest, Record Demand

A B-2 visitor visa is essential for travel to the United States for tourism, an application process that is time-consuming and involves several steps. We are in December 2025, and the number of visa applications has already reached a record high in the UAE. This is not only due to the interest in the World Cup but also the revival of travel post-pandemic, increased business mobility, and a general surge in American tourism.

Visa interview appointment availability is extremely limited, often requiring several months or up to a year of waiting. This is especially true between January and April when business travelers, students, and spring tourists strain the appointment booking system.

Why Start the Process in December?

Experts suggest that December is the ideal time for submitting visa applications because demand eases after the fall peak, leading to shorter wait times and more predictable processing durations. At the Dubai embassy, for example, a visa could be obtained within 5–10 business days after a successful interview, with refusals occurring immediately.

For those seeking professional assistance, interview appointments may be available within a week—but this is not guaranteed and applies only to well-documented, transparent applications.

FIFA Pass: Priority for Ticket Holders

The FIFA Pass, implemented through cooperation between FIFA and US authorities, grants priority in visa interviews to travelers holding official World Cup tickets. While helpful, it does not replace meticulous planning. Over a million tickets have already been claimed in FIFA's first wave of ticket sales, resulting in potentially similar competition for visa appointments.

Required Documents List

For UAE residents, the American visa application requires the following documents:

- valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity)

- confirmation of DS-160 form

- appointment confirmation

- valid UAE residence permit

- optionally: employer reference, bank statement, itinerary, insurance documents

Clear documentation increases the chances of approval and reduces the risk of denial.

Advice from Those Who’ve Started

Several fans from the UAE have shared their experiences and advice. Some plan to submit their applications by January, while others have already begun the process, especially those intending to watch matches in multiple American cities like New York, California, or Texas.

Some travelers believe it's still not too late, but standard appointment slots are virtually depleted. As a result, some agencies charge extra for appointment searching services. However, visa applications can be handled independently if one is persistent and regularly checks for openings.

Honesty Is Paramount

Visa interview questions are often personal, and responses are carefully scrutinized. Authorities pay particular attention to the purpose of travel, proof of intent to return, and the applicant’s stability. Therefore, honesty, detailed responses, and submission of all relevant documents are crucial.

Steps Needed for Planning

Experts recommend a well-structured preparation plan:

1. Submit visa application by December.

2. Select host cities and matches.

3. Register for FIFA ticket sales.

4. Book flights and accommodations early.

5. Arrange domestic transportation in the US.

6. Plan budget, arrange insurance.

7. Finalize travel documents.

Summary: Act Now to Win

The 2026 FIFA World Cup offers a unique opportunity for travelers from the UAE. However, this experience requires serious preparations, especially concerning visa processing. December is the last “quiet” window for potential visa interview appointments before the spring rush.

Obtaining a US visa is not impossible but not automatic either. Thorough preparation, timely initiation of the process, and maintaining order in documentation increase the likelihood of experiencing the thrill of the World Cup live.

Postponement can easily lead to missing out—not only on a visa but also on the biggest event in the sport.

(The article is based on reports from travel experts.)