Canada Prepares for a Landmark Year in Soccer
The year 2026 is shaping up to be historic for soccer in Canada. Toronto and Vancouver will host multiple FIFA World Cup matches, along with the FIFA Congress—marking the first time the men’s World Cup is held on Canadian soil. It’s a major moment for fans and an important step for the country on the global sporting stage.
New Rules for FIFA Workers Travelling to Canada
To ensure the success of the 2026 FIFA events, the Canadian government has introduced special measures for certain foreign workers. If you’re coming to Canada for short-term FIFA-related work, you may be able to enter without a traditional work permit. This temporary work permit exemption is designed to simplify travel for the people who help make the tournament possible.
Who Is Eligible for the Exemption?
Not everyone travelling for FIFA business will qualify. To use this exemption, you must meet all of the following criteria:
Apply for a temporary resident visa (TRV) between December 1, 2025, and July 31, 2026.
Have an official invitation letter from FIFA, confirming that you are:
A FIFA employee or an employee of a FIFA partner
Under contract with FIFA or with a FIFA-affiliated partner
Sub-contracted by a company working with FIFA
Be performing work directly tied to the World Cup or the FIFA Congress during the above dates.
Have your name on FIFA’s official list of invited workers.
What Still Applies
Even with this exemption, eligible workers must still:
Apply for a temporary resident visa to enter Canada.
Meet all standard Canadian immigration and admissibility requirements.
The exemption only removes the need for a work permit. All other rules stay the same.
How Long the Exemption Is in Effect
These special measures will remain active until July 31, 2026, unless Canada decides to end them earlier. After that, regular work permit requirements will return.
This policy replaces an earlier version introduced in October 2025. Anyone already approved under the old rules will continue to be covered until July 31, 2026, or until the policy changes.
Why This Matters for Travellers and Fans
Major sporting events like the FIFA World Cup bring thousands of workers, teams, organisers, and fans together. By simplifying entry for essential personnel, Canada aims to reduce administrative delays and support a smooth event experience.
The result?
More efficient planning, increased travel activity, stronger economic impact, and even more energy in Toronto and Vancouver during the tournament.
Final Thoughts
If you’re involved in FIFA-related work and planning to travel to Canada in 2026, make sure to check whether you qualify for this temporary exemption. For everyone else, these updates signal Canada’s readiness to host an unforgettable World Cup—welcoming visitors from around the world as it makes its mark on soccer history.
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