IRCC waives biometrics for FIFA-invited visitors ahead of 2026 World Cup
The temporary public policy runs from 25 November 2025 to 20 July 2026, paired with a separate work-permit exemption for FIFA-invited workers.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is operating a temporary public policy, in force from 25 November 2025 through 20 July 2026, that exempts FIFA-invited foreign nationals from the standard biometrics requirement when applying for a Temporary Resident Visa to enter Canada for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
What's changed
The temporary public policy waives the biometrics submission requirement under paragraph 12.1(d) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations for foreign nationals who hold an official FIFA Letter of Invitation and who apply for a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) between 25 November 2025 and 20 July 2026. Eligible applicants must follow the instructions in their FIFA invitation letter to flag their FIFA-invited status to IRCC during the application.
Applicants are not eligible for the biometrics exemption if they are associated with adverse information at IRCC that may result in an inadmissibility finding under sections 34, 35, 35.1, 36(1), 37, or 42 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. The Minister may revoke the temporary public policy at any time without prior notice.
A separate temporary public policy, in force from 1 December 2025 through 31 July 2026, exempts FIFA-invited foreign nationals supporting official tournament events from the standard work permit requirement. Together, the two policies streamline both the entry process for short-term visa holders and the work-authorization status of accredited tournament personnel.
Who's affected
The 2026 FIFA World Cup runs from 11 June to 19 July 2026 across 16 cities in Canada, Mexico, and the United States — the first World Cup co-hosted by three nations. Canada will host 13 matches between Toronto and Vancouver. The IRCC accommodations apply to FIFA-invited foreign nationals travelling to Canada for the tournament, including players, team officials, accredited personnel, and broadcast and media staff authorised through FIFA's invitation process.
“FIFA players, referees, team officials and certain accredited personnel do not require a work permit, though they may still need a TRV or eTA depending on nationality.,”
Standard immigration rules continue to apply to ticketed fans and other independent travellers. Visitors who are not United States citizens or permanent residents need either a TRV (for visa-required nationals) or an Electronic Travel Authorization (for visa-exempt nationals travelling by air) to enter Canada.
When it takes effect
The biometrics waiver public policy took effect on 25 November 2025 and is scheduled to expire on 20 July 2026 — one day after the tournament's final match on 19 July. The work permit exemption public policy is in force from 1 December 2025 through 31 July 2026.
Both measures are temporary public policies issued under the Minister of Immigration's authority and may be revoked without prior notice. As of 3 May 2026, both remain active. IRCC maintains a dedicated FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign page with current entry-requirement guidance for travellers.
Sources
Primary government sources
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada — Biometric Exemption for FIFA-Invited Applicants: 2026 Men's World Cup Canada (temporary public policy)
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada — Temporary public policy to exempt select FIFA-invited foreign nationals from work authorization requirements
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada — FIFA World Cup 26: What you need to enter Canada (campaign page)
Named-expert citations
- Rick Lamanna, Partner, Fragomen, Del Rey, Bernsen & Loewy LLP (Toronto)