On June 11, 2026 , the FIFA World Cup kicked off, featuring 48 national teams competing in 104 matches across 16 host cities, distributed among the United States (11), Mexico (3), and Canada (2). This year, immigration policies and security regulations at the hosting stadiums are strict, and a ticket to any of the matches does not guarantee entry into any of the countries.
If you or someone you know is traveling to experience the event, we recommend you consider this guide:
1. Visas and immigration
Each country enforces its own immigration policies for entry. Before your arrival, please note that you must have a valid passport with at least 6 months remaining before expiration, proof of sufficient funds, hotel reservations for your stay, medical insurance, and a return ticket to your country of origin or residence.
United States
78 of the 104 matches will be played here, including the final
- Guatemalans and most fans from other countries need a B1/B2 to enter. Citizens of Chile, Germany, Spain, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, and other European and Asian countries may be eligible for an electronic authorization ESTA.
- Immigration authorities (CBP) have complete discretion to grant or deny entry to international visitors. There have already been cases of visa denials and entry refusals for fans from countries such as Iran, Senegal, Ghana, and Haiti, and even for the Somali referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan.
- Use the visa obtained for its authorized purpose, and avoid, for example, engaging in paid work on a tourist visa.
Canada
- Just as is the case for the U.S., Guatemalans will need a visitor visa visitor visa to enter. Citizens of other countries may apply for an eTA.
Mexico
- Some Latin American countries are visa-exempt[1]. Other countries, including Guatemala, must apply for a visitor visa that does not permit paid employment.
- Exemption: You do not need to apply for a Mexican visa if you have any of the following documents: a valid and current visa from the U.S., Canada, Japan, the United Kingdom, or any Schengen country; and/or permanent residency in the U.S., Canada, Japan, the U.K., the Schengen Area, Chile, or Colombia.
- Due to the location of the venues, entry will not be permitted with the Regional Visitor Card (TVR). This card allows citizens of Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and Mexico to visit the states along Mexico’s southern border (Campeche, Chiapas, Tabasco, Quintana Roo, and Yucatán) for seven days without a visa.
2. FIFA Code of Conduct 2026
FIFA published its Code of Conduct with specific safety rules. These apply at all venues, tournament stadiums, and surrounding areas.
Clear Bag Policy (very strict)
- Transparent plastic, vinyl, or PVC bags (max. 30 x 30 x 15 cm).
- Small handbags (max. 11 x 16.5 cm), even if they are not transparent.
Prohibited items
- Reusable water bottles.
- Any closed container that can be thrown (bottles, cans, thermoses, etc.).
- Weapons of any kind, pepper spray, tasers, sharp or cutting objects.
- Explosives, fireworks, flares, smoke bombs, lighters, and any item that generates flame or smoke.
- Vuvuzelas, horns, whistles, loudspeakers, or devices that produce excessive noise.
- Opaque backpacks, large bags, camera cases, etc.
- Any object that, according to security personnel, could be used as a weapon or projectile.
Alcohol
- May be purchased and consumed inside the stadiums in designated areas.
Flags and banners
- Small flags and banners (2m x 1.5m) made of fire-retardant material are permitted. They may not contain messages that incite hatred or violence.
Behavior
- You may not re-enter the stadium once you have left.
- There will be zero tolerance for violent or discriminatory behavior, or behavior that jeopardizes the safety of other fans.
3. Recommendations
- Whenever you leave your place of lodging, be sure to bring your passport, as it is the only valid form of identification for foreigners recognized by the authorities.
- Bring cash to pay tips at hotels and restaurants. The customary amount at these venues is between 10% and 20% of the bill.
- Check with your embassy regarding the legality of using certain medications (stimulants, painkillers, among others).
- Bring the prescription for each medication you take.
- It is essential to have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, trip cancellation, or repatriation to your home country, if necessary.
- Download the official FIFA app.Your digital tickets and all event information will be available there.
- Review the complete FIFA Code of Conduct 2026 to familiarize yourself with the specific safety rules.
If you are one of the lucky ones traveling to enjoy this unforgettable soccer experience, follow these recommendations to avoid any mishaps.
[1] Argentina, Belize, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Jamaica, Panama, Paraguay, Uruguay, and Venezuela.
Publicado el 15 de junio de 2026.