What UAE residents need to know about the new US FIFA visa priority system
The United States has introduced a priority visa process for fans holding tickets to the 2026 FIFA World Cup, AFP reported.
The new system, called the FIFA Priority Appointment Scheduling System (FIFA PASS), gives ticket holders access to earlier US visa interview slots, helping ease travel planning ahead of the tournament.
For many UAE-based travellers — particularly expatriates who require a US visitor visa — the announcement raises a crucial question: will this actually make it easier to secure an appointment?
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Long waiting times continue in the UAE
Despite the launch of FIFA PASS, standard US visa appointment wait times in the UAE remain extremely long.
According to Hadi Umer, visa consultant at The Visa Guy:
“Dubai’s waiting time runs until late 2026, and Abu Dhabi’s until early 2027. Applicants from the UAE can now only book appointments within the UAE or their home country, as nearby embassies require local residency to schedule a US visa interview.”
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A notice from the US Department of State (Travel.State.Gov), updated on October 10, 2025, confirms that applicants must schedule non-immigrant visa interviews in their country of nationality or legal residence.
Umer stressed that even with priority access, applicants must be fully prepared before attempting to book.
“To secure an early appointment using a FIFA ticket, the DS-160 must be completed, the visa fee paid, and the passport details and DS-160 confirmation number must be correct.”
Demand rising ahead of the 2026 World Cup
Anastasia Yanchenko, CEO of The Visa Services, said interest from UAE residents has been rising for months.
“Travellers now understand that securing a US visa well in advance is essential for attending the tournament in June,” she said.
She noted that the newly announced priority system may offer some relief.
“There is hope that appointment timelines may ease for fans heading to the event.”
Why UAE applicants are often rejected
Yanchenko said the most common reason for rejection is failing to demonstrate strong ties to the UAE.
“Inadequate proof of employment, property, or responsibilities that show the applicant will return after the trip is a major factor,” she explained.
Other frequent issues include:
- Assuming hotel bookings, tickets, or a student I-20 guarantee approval
- Providing irrelevant or distant family connections in the US
- Misunderstanding eligibility requirements
She advised applicants to clearly state their travel purpose, provide accurate documents, and show credible evidence that they will return to the UAE.
Tournament details and visa rules
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be the largest in history, featuring 48 teams and 78 matches across 11 host cities in the United States from 11 June to 19 July 2026.
It remains unclear whether FIFA PASS will apply to nationals from countries under US travel restrictions, following an executive order signed earlier this year.
Who needs a visa to enter the US for the World Cup?
Travellers must ensure their documentation is valid:
Passport validity
Passports must be valid for at least six months beyond the traveller’s stay. Canadian and Bermudan passport holders are exempt.
Visa Waiver Programme (VWP)
Citizens of 42 countries — including the UK, EU nations, Japan and Australia — may enter via ESTA.
B-1/B-2 visitor visas
Travellers from all other countries must apply for a US visitor visa. Applicants must prove:
- Their trip is temporary
- They plan to stay for a limited time
- They can fund the visit
- They have strong ties outside the US
Required documentation may include:
- Proof of income, property, or business
- Travel purpose or itinerary
- Employer letter confirming role, salary, and leave approval
- Any relevant court or criminal records
Unlike previous World Cups in Russia (2018) and Qatar (2022), match tickets for the 2026 tournament will not generate a Fan ID that doubles as a visa.
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