Nothing called FIFA visa: Canada immigration expert warns Indians against frauds

A Canada-based immigration expert flagged visa misinformation floating on social media which are misleadingly claiming that Canada won't be refusing any visa applications in 2026.

Mandeep Lidher, the expert, said unlincensed agents in India, especially in Punjab, are promoting 'FIFA visas' claiming that if applicants write "emotional letters" about how big football fans thet are, the Canadian authorities won't refuse travel visas this year. "There is no FIFA or special event visitor visa category for Indian nationals," Lidher posted on social media, alerting against marketing gimmicks.

"Many, if not most, TRV (temporary resident visa or visitor visa) applications from India are currently being refused. Decisions are largely bulk-processed using automated/AI triage. A “convincing letter” does not override weak ties, finances, or travel history," Lidher added.

No FIFA visa

The Canadian authorities on their website mentioned it clearly that fans who want to come to attend the FIFA World Cup 26 will have to enter Canada as tourists.

There is no special FIFA World Cup 26 visa. A Visitor visa or an electronic travel authorization is what the visitors need. ETA is for the nationals from visa-exempt countries. US Green Card holders can enter Canada without either of these two but they will have to show proper documents.

"You don’t need to have a FIFA Cup ticket to apply for a visitor visa or an eTA. Having a FIFA Cup event ticket doesn’t guarantee that your visa or eTA application will be approved," the authorities said. "Beware of immigration agents who promise entry to Canada for the FIFA World Cup 26. No one can guarantee you a visa or an eTA. You’re responsible for all the information in your application, even if a representative completes it for you. Make sure all your documents are accurate, or you could risk a 5-year ban," the authorities said, adding that applicants should mention that they are coming to Canada for FIFA.Between June 11 and July 19, Canada will be hosting 13 FIFA World Cup 2026 matches in Toronto and Vancouver.