In preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, co-hosted by Canada, the U.S., and Mexico, Canada’s immigration authorities have introduced a temporary public policy that waives the usual biometrics requirement for certain travellers invited directly by FIFA. This move is designed to speed up the visa application process and smooth travel for key participants and officials attending the global tournament.
What the Policy Does
Normally, anyone applying for a Canadian Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) — including visitors for sports events — must give biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) at a Visa Application Centre during their visa application. This step can delay processing, especially with high demand. Under the new rule:
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FIFA-invited applicants do not have to provide biometrics when applying for a TRV.
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The waiver applies to visa applications submitted between 25 November 2025 and 20 July 2026 — covering both the build-up and aftermath of the World Cup period.
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Eligible applicants still must meet all normal admissibility standards, such as security, health, and criminality checks — the change only removes the biometrics step for this specific group.
Who Benefits From the Waiver
This targeted policy is intended for individuals with official FIFA invitations — including:
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Players, coaches, and team officials
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Match officials, referees, and technical staff
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Accredited media representatives and key event personnel
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Selected partners and delegates directly involved in World Cup activities
For these travellers, Canada’s temporary waiver reduces the administrative burden and helps avoid appointment backlogs at biometric centres, which can otherwise slow down visa decisions.
Why This Matters
The removal of biometrics for a defined group of World Cup-related applicants has several key benefits:
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📩 Faster visa processing: Without the need to visit a biometric collection centre, applications can be completed more quickly and efficiently.
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🛂 Less administrative burden: Applicants no longer need to schedule and attend fingerprint/photo appointments, which can be hard to secure during busy periods.
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🌍 Better planning: With millions of visitors expected for the tournament, the waiver helps ease pressure on Canada’s immigration system and ensures key personnel arrive on time.
Importantly, this temporary measure does not apply to the general public or ordinary fans attending games unless they hold valid FIFA invitation letters — such as accredited staff, officials, or partners. Other visitors are expected to follow the standard visa process, complete with biometrics and other requirements.