Canada has announced a temporary public policy exempting certain FIFA-invited foreign nationals from work authorization requirements ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The policy, effective through July 31, 2026, applies to FIFA employees, contractors, and subcontractors who hold invitation letters confirming their involvement in official FIFA events. Eligible individuals can enter Canada between December 1, 2025, and July 31, 2026, without obtaining traditional work permits. This streamlined approach aims to facilitate the smooth execution of both the 76th FIFA Congress and World Cup matches scheduled in Toronto and Vancouver, marking the first time Canada hosts the men’s FIFA World Cup on home soil.
Canada introduces work permit exemptions for FIFA World Cup 2026 personnel
