Canada has announced a temporary public policy that will exempt certain FIFA‑invited foreign nationals from the biometrics collection requirement when applying for a temporary resident visa (TRV) to participate in events related to the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup. The measure aims to streamline processing for key delegates and officials while maintaining security and admissibility standards.
Overview of the Public Policy
Under authority provided by section 25.2 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act, Canada may exempt eligible FIFA‑invited applicants from the requirement to provide biometrics as part of a TRV application. This policy applies only to a clearly defined group of foreign nationals entering Canada for the specific purpose of participating in FIFA 2026 events or related activities.
Eligibility Requirements
Delegated officers may grant the biometrics exemption if a foreign national meets one of the following sets of conditions:
Category 1: FIFA‑Invited Applicants
The applicant must:
- Apply for a temporary resident visa between November 25, 2025 and July 20, 2026
- Hold an official FIFA Letter of Invitation
- Not be associated with adverse information that could result in inadmissibility under sections 34, 35, 35.1, 36(1), or 37, or section 42 (in cases of family‑based inadmissibility) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
Category 2: Diplomatic or Official Passport Holders
The applicant must:
- Apply for a temporary resident visa between November 25, 2025 and July 20, 2026
- Hold a diplomatic or official passport
- Hold a FIFA Letter of Invitation
- Not be associated with adverse information that could result in inadmissibility under sections 34, 35, 35.1, 36(1), or 37, or section 42 of the Act
Regulation Exemption
Eligible applicants may be exempted from:
- Paragraph 12.1(d) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, which requires biometrics collection for TRV applications.
Effective Dates
- Start date: November 25, 2025
- End date: July 20, 2026
- The policy applies to new and pending applications as of the start date.
- The Government of Canada may revoke the policy at any time without notice.
Background
Canada will co‑host the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup alongside the United States and Mexico, staging 13 matches between June 11 and July 19, 2026. Vancouver will additionally host the FIFA Congress in April 2026, welcoming delegates from up to 211 member associations.
Erickson Insights & Analysis
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