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Sofia, Bulgaria — May 19, 2026 — As anticipation builds for the FIFA World Cup 2026™—the first tournament jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico—U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) has revealed unprecedented travel processing activity ahead of the event. With 48 teams competing across 104 matches from June 11 to July 19, 2026, the U.S. Alone is expected to host 78 games and welcome over 5 million international visitors, marking one of the largest coordinated border operations in recent history.
In a bid to streamline security while accommodating the influx of travelers, CBP has reported receiving more than 5.9 million Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) applications and over 1.6 million Trusted Traveler Program applications between October 2025 and April 2026. These figures reflect early planning by fans, athletes, and officials preparing for the tournament, which will feature expanded stadiums, increased charter flights, and heightened aviation traffic.
The surge in travel authorizations underscores the scale of the event, with the United Kingdom leading ESTA approvals at over 1.2 million applications, followed by France, Germany, Japan, and South Korea. CBP’s proactive measures—including digital tools, expedited processing programs, and enhanced aviation coordination—aim to balance security with efficiency as the world converges on North America’s soccer mecca.
Record Travel Authorizations as CBP Prepares for FIFA World Cup 2026™
CBP’s Office of Field Operations confirmed that over 5 million ESTA applications were approved during the seven-month period, with the United Kingdom accounting for the highest volume at more than 1.2 million approvals. The Visa Waiver Program, which allows eligible travelers from 40 countries to visit the U.S. For up to 90 days without a visa, has seen a 30% increase in applications compared to the same period leading up to the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.
Matthew S. Davies, Executive Director for Admissibility and Passenger Programs at CBP, stated in a recent press release that the agency is “preparing proactively to balance security responsibilities with efficient traveler processing.” The focus, he added, is on reducing congestion at ports of entry while maintaining rigorous screening protocols.
CBP’s latest operational updates highlight coordination with domestic and international partners to manage enrollment capacity for Trusted Traveler Programs, including Global Entry, SENTRI (for land crossings into Mexico), and NEXUS (for Canada-U.S. Travel). These programs allow pre-approved, low-risk travelers to bypass traditional inspection lines, significantly cutting wait times at airports and border crossings.
Expedited Processing: How Trusted Traveler Programs Can Save Hours at the Border
With over 1.6 million Trusted Traveler Program applications submitted in the same period, CBP is urging eligible travelers to apply early. The programs offer:
- Global Entry: Expedited clearance for air and sea travel at participating U.S. Airports.
- SENTRI: Pre-check for land crossings into the U.S. From Mexico.
- NEXUS: Combined U.S.-Canada border and air travel benefits for frequent travelers.
CBP has also promoted the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app, which allows eligible travelers to submit arrival information electronically before inspection. This system, available at select airports, aims to reduce processing delays by up to 40% during peak travel periods.
COMPASS: CBP’s New Virtual Assistant for FIFA Travelers
To further assist fans, CBP launched COMPASS, a secure virtual assistant, on April 1, 2026. In its first month of operation, COMPASS answered over 25,000 traveler questions, primarily about ESTA requirements, Global Entry participation, and I-94 processing. The platform is accessible via CBP’s FIFA-related travel pages and provides real-time guidance on entry requirements, prohibited items, and inspection procedures.
Travelers are advised to use COMPASS to confirm whether they need an ESTA (for Visa Waiver Program participants) or a visa, ensure passport validity for the entire stay, and review restrictions on food, plant, and animal products. Failure to declare agricultural items or large sums of currency (over $10,000) can result in fines or confiscation.
Aviation Surge: Charter Flights and General Aviation Preparations
Beyond passenger processing, CBP is coordinating with charter operators and corporate aviation stakeholders to manage increased air traffic. The agency has updated General Aviation Arrival and Departure Procedures to streamline arrivals and departures, particularly for teams, officials, and VIPs traveling via private jets.
Pilots and operators must comply with the Advance Passenger Information System (APIS) requirements and obtain prior permission to land. CBP’s unified command structure ensures strategic resource deployment across land, air, and sea ports of entry, with real-time threat monitoring to mitigate risks.
Key Steps for International Visitors: What You Must Know
As the tournament approaches, CBP has issued critical reminders for international visitors:
- ESTA/Visa Requirements: Confirm eligibility for the Visa Waiver Program (apply here). Non-VWP travelers must obtain a visa.
- Passport Validity: Ensure your passport remains valid for the entire duration of your stay.
- Prohibited Items: Declare all food, plants, and animal products to avoid confiscation or fines.
- Currency Declarations: Report cash over $10,000 on Form FinCEN 105.
- Mobile Apps: Download CBP’s official apps for wait times, travel alerts, and digital processing.
CBP officers stationed across the U.S. And globally are gearing up to process international travelers swiftly. Below, see how CBP is preparing for the influx of visitors: