🇨🇦 Why This Matters
If you plan to travel to Canada for the 2026 World Cup, whether to attend matches, enjoy fan culture, or experience the tournament as a global fan, you need to secure a visitor visa (also called a Temporary Resident Visa — TRV), unless you’re from a visa-exempt country. Holding a match ticket alone does not guarantee entry.
This guide walks you through: who needs a visa, what documents you must gather, special considerations for minors, and helpful prep tips to make your journey smooth.
1. Do You Need a Visitor Visa?
You need a visitor visa to enter Canada if:
- You are not from a visa-exempt country.
- You plan to stay temporarily (tourism, event attendance, short visit).
✅ You must satisfy these basic conditions:
- Hold a valid passport or approved travel document.
- Be in good health, with no serious criminal/immigration offences.
- Demonstrate you have enough funds for the stay.
- Convince the immigration officer you will leave Canada at the end of your visit (ties to home country, sufficient funds, etc.)
If you meet those, you’re eligible to apply for a visitor visa.
📄 2. Documents & Supporting Papers You’ll Need
When you apply via the IRCC visitor-visa process, gather the following (some are required, some strongly recommended):
| Document / Proof | Purpose / Why You Need It |
|---|---|
| Valid passport (bio page + any previous visas/stamps) | To prove identity and travel history |
| Clear passport-style photos (if required) | For visa application processing (if paper application) |
| Travel itinerary (flights, arrival & return) | Shows your plan & confirms temporary stay — important for fans attending World Cup fixtures |
| Accommodation proof (hotel booking or invite letter) | Demonstrates where you will stay during your visit |
| Bank statements / proof of funds for at least past 6 months | Shows you can support yourself during stay — no burden on public funds |
| Cover letter (optional but recommended) | Explains purpose of visit (e.g. “attending FIFA World Cup 2026 matches & tourism”) |
| (If minor child traveling) → Letter of authorization + custody/consent documents | Required if a child travels alone or with only one parent/guardian |
3. Application Steps (Online or Paper)
- Download or open application form (IMM 5257) — available from IRCC website. IRCC
- Complete form carefully; check the list of required documents for your nationality/region.
- Pay visa & biometric fees (if required).
- Upload documents (for online application) or package and send (for paper application).
- If required, give biometrics (fingerprints + photo) when instructed. Most applicants aged 14–79 must do so.
- Wait for decision. Processing times vary by country and completeness of application.
🛑 Important: Submitting all documents does not guarantee visa approval. Immigration officers have discretion and may ask additional information.
4. Medical, Health & Entry Requirements
- For short visits, medical exam is generally not required.
- However, for certain applicants or special cases (e.g. long stays), IRCC might request an Immigration Medical Exam (IME).
- Ensure your passport is valid for entire stay and preferably at least 6 months beyond intended departure date.
5. Tips for Football Fans Attending World Cup 2026
– Apply Early
Because of many fans applying, visa processing could take time, submit your application as soon as you have your match schedule and travel dates.
– Use Accurate Itinerary
When booking flights and accommodations, try to match your intended matchdays. A clear, realistic itinerary strengthens your application.
– Show Financial Ability
Include clean bank statements for last 6+ months. The ability to support your stay increases approval chances.
– Be Honest & Transparent
Misrepresentation or false documents can lead to refusal or future inadmissibility. Always provide real, verifiable info.
– Have Backup Documents Ready
If you’ve visited other countries with visas or stamps, include those — they show travel history and strengthen your case.
– For Minors: Use Authorization Letters
If travelling with children under 18, ensure proper permission letters (from both parents/guardians) — standard IRCC requirement.
6. Summary — Your Canada Visa Checklist for World Cup 2026
Before you apply, ensure you have:
- ✅ Valid passport
- ✅ Flight itinerary / return ticket
- ✅ Hotel reservation or stay address
- ✅ Bank statements (last 6 months)
- ✅ Completed visa application (IMM 5257)
- ✅ Passport-style photos / biometric readiness (if required)
- ✅ Cover letter explaining purpose (fan + tourism)
- ✅ Additional documents if traveling with minors