With just four months until Canada hosts 13 matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, IRCC reminded stakeholders this weekend that a temporary public policy waives biometrics for certain “FIFA-accredited” applicants seeking Temporary Resident Visas (TRVs). The waiver, first published 25 November 2025 but highlighted again in a 22 February 2026 government webinar, applies to players, officials, broadcast crew and other personnel invited by FIFA or national federations.
Eligible applicants who submit online between 25 November 2025 and 20 July 2026 will receive an automatic biometric exemption and expedited processing. Regular security and criminality checks still apply, and travellers must present their passport and accreditation letter at the border. Family members and ticket-holding spectators are not covered.
![‘Ready lanes’ but no biometrics: FIFA World Cup visitors get partial visa relief]()
Organizations seeking clarity on whether they fit the waiver criteria—or on any other Canadian travel permission—can turn to VisaHQ for practical help. The company’s portal (https://www.visahq.com/canada/) consolidates up-to-date requirements, offers guided form completion, and tracks applications so teams can focus on tournament preparations rather than paperwork.
The policy is aimed at preventing the type of biometrics bottleneck seen during the Women’s World Cup in 2023, when visiting delegations queued for hours at Visa Application Centres overseas. IRCC estimates that roughly 8,000 individuals will benefit.
Corporate hospitality teams arranging VIP travel should note that the waiver does not guarantee approval; invitations should be submitted well in advance, and contingency plans are still advised for media crews transporting large quantities of equipment through CBSA inspection points.
Eligible applicants who submit online between 25 November 2025 and 20 July 2026 will receive an automatic biometric exemption and expedited processing. Regular security and criminality checks still apply, and travellers must present their passport and accreditation letter at the border. Family members and ticket-holding spectators are not covered.
Organizations seeking clarity on whether they fit the waiver criteria—or on any other Canadian travel permission—can turn to VisaHQ for practical help. The company’s portal (https://www.visahq.com/canada/) consolidates up-to-date requirements, offers guided form completion, and tracks applications so teams can focus on tournament preparations rather than paperwork.
The policy is aimed at preventing the type of biometrics bottleneck seen during the Women’s World Cup in 2023, when visiting delegations queued for hours at Visa Application Centres overseas. IRCC estimates that roughly 8,000 individuals will benefit.
Corporate hospitality teams arranging VIP travel should note that the waiver does not guarantee approval; invitations should be submitted well in advance, and contingency plans are still advised for media crews transporting large quantities of equipment through CBSA inspection points.
