Visa for The World Cup in The USA | Entry for Athletes, Referees And Officials
December 1, 2025
The U.S. government has adjusted its visa policy for major international sporting events such as the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Certain referees, judges, and technical officials can now enter the U.S. on a B-1 visa under clearly defined conditions. In simple cases, visa-free entry via the Visa Waiver Program (ESTA) may also be an option.
What specifically has been changed for the World Cup?
The amendment does not concern a completely new legal basis, but rather the interpretation of the existing regulations on B-1 status in the Foreign Affairs Manual (FAM). It now states more precisely that, in addition to athletes, “personnel necessary for the conduct of a sporting event” may also enter the country under certain conditions – including referees, linesmen, judges, timekeepers, track inspectors, and similar technical officials.
For many of these assignments, it is advisable in practice to apply for a formal visa (e.g. B-1) rather than relying solely on short-term visa-free entry, due to the clear status determination, the often longer length of stay, and the legal protection vis-à-vis the U.S. authorities.
Visa for temporary assignment at the tournament
This regulation is particularly relevant with regard to the 2026 World Cup games in the USA, for example in Arlington, Atlanta, Miami Gardens, and East Rutherford. It benefits internationally selected officials who are appointed through a formal selection process and travel to the USA for a temporary assignment at a specific tournament or event. Especially for multiple or longer assignments – such as in the preliminary round, knockout round, and final – a B-1 visa is usually the legally secure and recommended option, as the specific purpose of the assignment, the remuneration structure, and the duration of the stay are already checked and documented in the visa process.
Remuneration must not come from the USA
It is essential that remuneration for serving as an arbitrator or technical official does not come from a U.S. source. In practice, only the reimbursement of travel, accommodation, and similar incidental expenses is generally permissible, while the actual remuneration must be paid by an association or employer abroad. Particularly in the case of recurring assignments, longer stays, or more complex contractual arrangements, a classic visa application – for example, for a B-1 visa – is the legally secure way to avoid problems at the border or subsequent immigration law violations. In many cases, it is therefore advisable to go through a formal visa procedure at an early stage rather than simply entering the country visa-free, in order to clearly explain your status, assignment profile, and remuneration structure to the U.S. authorities.
Our advice for associations and officials
The new regulations provide greater planning security for associations, organizers, and sports officials, but also entail risks if the wrong status is chosen or remuneration structures are not clearly defined. Our law firm advises
- international associations and organizers on the legally compliant secondment of officials to the U.S.,
- athletes, referees, judges, and technical officials on choosing the appropriate visa status (ESTA, B-1, or other categories),
- on contract and remuneration issues, in particular on the distinction between permissible expense reimbursement and impermissible U.S. remuneration.
If you are planning to participate in the 2026 World Cup or other sporting events in the U.S., we will be happy to assist you in ensuring legal compliance. Please contact us for individual advice.
We are happy to assist you with the entire application process! Feel free to contact us directly with your questions at any time. The best way to reach us is by e-mail (info@visum-usa.com) or by phone (+49 69 76 75 77 85 26).
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