UAE Fifa fans to get priority US visa interview slots for World Cup 2026

UAE residents planning to travel to the United States for the 2026 Fifa World Cup will be able to book priority visa interview appointments, the US Embassy has confirmed to Khaleej Times. The move comes as interview wait times in Abu Dhabi and Dubai stretch well into 2026 and 2027, raising concerns among fans who have already booked match tickets and travel packages.

The US Department of State has introduced a new Fifa Priority Appointment Scheduling System (PASS), which will allow ticket holders to secure a faster interview date once they submit their visa application. 

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“The new system will give Fifa World Cup ticket holders who need a US visa the opportunity to schedule a prioritised interview appointment,” the embassy said in its written response to Khaleej Times.

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“Every Fifa World Cup ticket holder who needs a visa will have the opportunity to schedule an interview appointment in time to attend the tournament.” 

This assurance is significant for UAE residents, especially those from countries that require B1/B2 visitor visas. Current wait times for non-priority appointments stretch more than a year ahead, with many applicants receiving dates well past the tournament period.

The embassy clarified that while interview slots will be prioritised, visa approval is not guaranteed.

"A World Cup ticket does not guarantee a US visa,” the Embassy said in the responses. “Applicants must meet all eligibility requirements under US law, and every application is reviewed individually.”

While PASS will officially roll out in early 2026, officials said that the system has been designed to ensure that no ticket holder misses the tournament due to interview delays.

SM Ayaz Zakir

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ayaz@khaleejtimes.com

SM Ayaz Zakir is a Senior Correspondent with a flair for extraordinary stories. His playground? Every corner of the UAE. He often ventures into remote corners of the country to capture compelling news and human interest stories.