Canada to Allow FIFA Workers Entry Without Work Permits for 2026 World Cup

Canada is getting ready for a big year in soccer. In 2026, the FIFA Congress and many World Cup matches will take place in Toronto and Vancouver. This is a first for the men’s FIFA World Cup in Canada, a real milestone for fans and the country.

What’s New for FIFA Workers Coming to Canada

To help make the 2026 FIFA events run smoothly, Canada has new rules for certain foreign workers. If you are coming for FIFA-related work that only lasts for a short time, you might not need the usual work permit.

This is called a work permit exemption. The reason? Canada wants to make it easier for the people who help run the tournament to enter the country.

Who Can Use This Exemption?

Not everyone will qualify under this new visa exemption. To be eligible you must:

• Apply for a temporary resident visa between December 1, 2025, and July 31, 2026.
• Hold an official invitation letter from FIFA, confirming you are:
  • An employee of FIFA or one of its partners
  • Someone who has a contract with FIFA or those partners
  • Sub-contracted by a company already working with FIFA
• Be doing work directly related to the World Cup or FIFA Congress, between the above dates.
• Your name must appear on FIFA’s special list of invited workers.

What’s Still Required

Even with the exemption, an eligible foreign national must still:

• Apply for a temporary resident visa to enter Canada.
• Meet all other immigration and admissibility requirements under Canadian law.

How Long Does the Exemption Last?

The special rules will apply until July 31, 2026, or until Canada decides to end them. After that, the usual work permit rules will return.

What Else to Know

Foreign workers using this exemption still have to meet all other regular requirements for coming to Canada. Only the rules mentioned above are changing temporarily.

This update replaces an older policy from October 2025. If someone already got permission under the old rules, they are still covered until July 31, 2026, or until the government changes the policy.

Why Is This Important for Travellers and Soccer Fans?

Hosting the FIFA World Cup brings thousands of people together from around the world. This change should help teams, staff, and organisers reach their destinations without facing paperwork delays.

It’s a significant support for staging such a large global event. It will likely lead to more travel, spending, and excitement in both host cities.

Final Thoughts

If you’re working on anything related to the World Cup and want to visit Canada, check if you qualify for this special process. For everyone else, it’s another sign that Canada is prepared to host a memorable tournament, welcoming visitors and making history on its home turf.