Ten African countries will be playing at the World Cup, but will their supporters be there?
The 2026 FIFA World Cup is set to take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026, and will be co-hosted across Canada, Mexico, and the United States.
ALSO READ: Why the 2026 World Cup is Special – and How to Catch Every Minute of it
For fans in Africa, dreaming of watching matches live, the biggest hurdle is visas.
Here are the easiest host countries for Africans based on current visa realities and smart travel hacks shared by the Canadian government and Avid Service Hub.
Mexico
South Africa will be playing Mexico in their country. That’s good news for South African supporters because processing a Mexican visa via the Mexican consulate is faster than other countries. Typically, it takes 2-4 weeks to get one.
However, people with a valid US or Canadian multiple-entry visa, you can enter Mexico visa-free for up to 180 days for tourism. Many fans are using this route.
Apart from being able to get your Mexican visa easily, Mexico offers lower costs on accommodation and food compared to US/Canadian cities. As an African, you can also expect vibrant fan zones and easier cultural connection.
Therefore, Mexico is the easiest country for Africans to visit for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Canada
You need at least a visitor visa (temporary resident visa) to be in Canada for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, and it takes about 4-6 weeks to process your Canadian visa. A solid application with proof of funds (around CAD $10,000+), travel insurance, and a return ticket boosts approval chances.
Canada is a friendly entry for sports tourists, and now that it’s the World Cup season, it’s about to get friendlier, being a host. Matches are set to be held in Toronto and Vancouver.
You can also choose to get a Canadian visa first, then use it to enter Mexico visa-free. Canada is the second easiest country for Africans to visit for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
SEE ALSO: 3 African Artists Take Centre Stage in FIFA’s Global Entertainment Strategy
United States
The United States is the toughest country to get into for the FIFA World Cup as an African. Why?
You need a B1/B2 tourist visa, and to get it, you have to wait for about seven or more months for interviews in Lagos or Abuja.
- Additional hurdles in 2026: Possible bond requirements (up to $15,000 for some eligible applicants) and entry restrictions under certain proclamations.
- The high demand from World Cup fans doesn’t make it any easier either.
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