As preparations intensify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the Canadian government has issued a strong warning to football fans about visa scams linked to the tournament.
Canadian authorities have clarified that there is no special visa known as a “FIFA Visa” or any dedicated tourist visa for the 2026 World Cup. Fans planning to attend matches in Canada will be allowed entry strictly as regular visitors, in accordance with current immigration regulations.
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World Cup 2026: Scale and Attendance
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will run from June 11 to July 19, 2026, and will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico. The expanded football tournament will feature 48 teams and 104 matches over 39 days.
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FIFA projects a record-breaking turnout, with more than 5 million and potentially up to 6.5 million fans expected to attend matches across the three host nations. This figure would surpass the previous attendance record of approximately 3.6 million set at the 1994 World Cup in the United States.
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Canada to Host 13 Matches
In Canada alone, more than 650,000 visitors are expected, split mainly between Vancouver and Toronto. Estimates suggest up to 350,000 visitors for matches in Vancouver and about 300,000 in Toronto, as Canada hosts 13 matches during the tournament.
Tourist Visas Are Not a Pathway to Residency
The Canadian government also stressed that tourist visas cannot be used for employment or as a pathway to permanent residence, warning fans to be wary of false promises.
According to the government, anyone travelling to Canada to watch World Cup matches will be entering strictly as a tourist. There is no special World Cup visa, but travellers may require either a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA), depending on their nationality.
Official Channels Only
Authorities further cautioned the public against immigration agents or third parties who claim they can guarantee entry into Canada for the World Cup.
“You’re responsible for all the information in your application, even if a representative completes it for you,” the Canadian government warned.
“Make sure all your documents are accurate, or you could risk a five-year ban.”
Fans planning to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada are therefore advised to apply only through official government channels and remain vigilant against fraudulent schemes.
