Immigration Announcement
A Guide to Canada Visitor Visa for FIFA World Cup 2026
Football fever is coming to Canada. Toronto and Vancouver will host 13 FIFA World Cup 2026 matches between 11 June and 19 July 2026. If you’re planning to cheer at BMO Field or BC Place, the first win is simple: sort your Canada Visitor Visa or eTA early. This guide keeps things clear, practical, and up to date, so you can focus on match day, not paperwork.
Who needs a Canada Visitor Visa vs an eTA?
There Are Two Entry Routes:
- Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) – the formal name for a Canada Visitor Visa. Needed if your nationality is visa-required.
- Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) – for visa-exempt travellers arriving by air. Linked to your passport; valid up to five years or until your passport expires.
Flying between Canada, the U.S., and Mexico? Each country has its own entry rules. A U.S. or Mexican visa does not cover entry to Canada.
No, There’s No Special “FIFA Visa”
You may have seen posts about a brand-new, event-only visa. Not true. Canada already issues multiple-entry TRVs and eTAs. Both let you come and go during their validity, perfect for fans hopping between Toronto, Vancouver, and matches abroad. The key is apply early. Demand will surge.
Canada Visitor Visa: Step-by-Step (TRV)
- Check Eligibility: Confirm your country is visa-required and that you have no inadmissibility issues.
Gather Documents: Passport, funds, ties to home, travel plan, photos, and (if you have them) FIFA ticket confirmations. - Complete the Online Form: Purpose of travel: “Tourism – attending FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in Toronto/Vancouver.”
- Pay Fees: CAD $100 visa fee. Biometrics (if needed): CAD $85.
- Submit Online: (fastest) Paper at a VAC is possible, but slower.
- Give Biometrics: (if asked) Valid for 10 years.
- Interview (if requested): Be clear and consistent about plans and funds.
- Processing Time: Varies by country. With millions of fans moving, apply 6–12 months in advance.
ETA in Three Quick Steps (Visa-Exempt, By Air)
- Complete the short online form.
Pay CAD $7.
Receive approval (often minutes; allow a few days).
Arriving by land from the U.S.? eTA not required, but bring your passport and trip details.
Proof that Convinces: What Officers Look For
A strong “Purpose of Visit” Letter (300–500 words) Should Include
- Who you are (name, nationality, job).
- Match plan (dates, cities, stadiums).
- Funds (how you’ll pay for travel and stay).
- Ties to home (work, studies, family, property).
- Tickets or sales phase (confirmation, lottery entry, or itinerary if you’re still buying).
Keep it short. Be factual. Match your form and documents.
Documents at a Glance (Print This)
| Item | What to include | Tip |
| Passport | Valid for your full trip | Check expiry covers July 2026 |
| Funds | Bank statements, payslips, sponsor letter | Aim for CAD $1,000–$2,000 per month |
| Travel plan | Dates, cities, stadiums, accommodation | Add flight holds and hotel bookings |
| World Cup link | Ticket confirmations or lottery proof | Bring match emails to the airport |
| Ties to home | Job letter, study letter, property, family | The stronger the ties, the better |
| Photos | As per IRCC specs | Recent, correct size |
| Biometrics | If required | Book early slots |
Match Cities, Dates, and Travel Rhythm
- Toronto (BMO Field): 6 matches, including the opening Canada game on 12 June.
Vancouver (BC Place): 7 matches, including Canada games on 18 and 24 July, plus knockout fixtures.
A multiple-entry TRV or your eTA handles back-and-forth travel within Canada. Crossing to the U.S. or Mexico? Sort those visas separately.
Smart Tips for a Smooth Trip
- Apply early: End of 2025 at the latest is wise.
- Be consistent: All forms, letters, and bookings must match.
- Carry proof at the border: Tickets, hotel, funds, return flight.
- Buy tickets only via official channels: Avoid scams.
- Use public transit on match days: TTC (Toronto) and SkyTrain (Vancouver) save time.
- Health rules: Check any vaccine or entry health notes closer to 2026.
How to Stay Updated With the Latest Canada Immigration News?
Canada is ready for a world-class tournament. If you apply in good time and submit clear proof, your Canada Visitor Visa or eTA should be straightforward. Pack your scarf, charge your phone, and enjoy the football.
For a stress-free FIFA trip, secure your Canada Visitor Visa (or eTA) early, keep documents tidy, and follow official guidance. Need a source to stay ahead? Canada Immigration News is here to help you every step of the way to the stands.
