Canada’s new immigration measure lets FIFA‑invited workers come to the 2026 World Cup without a regular work permit. Here’s the full scoop:
Eligibility
– Must have an official FIFA invitation (employee, contractor, or subcontractor) for work that’s short‑term and directly tied to FIFA events in Toronto or Vancouver.
– Name must appear on the FIFA microsite verification list.
– Work can be done only between Dec 1 2025 and July 31 2026.
What’s still required
– Valid travel document (passport).
– Visa or eTAif your nationality requires it (the exemption only waives the work‑permit, not entry requirements).
– Pass all standard security, health, and admissibility checks
Documents to carry at the border
– FIFA invitation letter.
– Proof of FIFA‑related duties.
– Evidence of being listed on the FIFA microsite.
– Travel docs (passport, visa/eTA).
Key points
– The policy is temporary, expiring July 31 2026 (or earlier if revoked) .
– It covers roles like tech support, venue ops, broadcasting, logistics, etc, but not ordinary jobs—those still need a regular work permit.
– Family members or non‑FIFA staff must follow normal immigration rules.
Why it matters
This streamlines staffing for the World Cup, reducing paperwork for employers while maintaining border security.
