B1/B2 Visitor Visa for World Cup 2026 USA Fans (When ESTA Is Not Enough)

Frequently asked

Who needs a B1/B2 instead of an ESTA?

Anyone whose passport is not on the US Visa Waiver Program — most South American, Asian, African and some Eastern European nationalities. The B1/B2 covers tourism (including matches) and short business visits, and it requires a consular interview, not just an online form.

How long does the process take in 2026?

Appointment wait times vary hugely by consulate — anywhere from a few weeks to many months. Apply as early as humanly possible. Once interviewed, approved passports usually return within days; refusal means starting over, often with the same wait again.

What do I bring to the interview?

Passport, DS-160 confirmation, fee receipt, photo, your itinerary including match tickets or proof of intent, proof of funds and ties to home (job letter, property, family). The officer is checking whether you will leave — show a complete life back home, not just a flight booking.

What about health cover during the trip?

B1/B2 itself does not require insurance, but US healthcare is brutally expensive and a single ER visit can cost more than the trip. Buy travel health cover with adequate US limits before you fly — it is the cheapest insurance against the most expensive bill you can imagine.