With the FIFA World Cup 2026 set to bring millions of fans, athletes, media professionals, and officials to North America, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) is urging travellers to plan ahead before arriving in Canada to ensure smooth and secure border crossings during the global tournament.
The tournament, scheduled from June 11 to July 19, 2026, will be the largest FIFA World Cup in history, featuring 48 national teams and 104 matches hosted across Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Canada is expected to welcome teams including Germany, Belgium, Ghana, Croatia, Senegal, Egypt, Switzerland, Qatar, Australia, and Côte d’Ivoire.
In a detailed advisory released Thursday, the CBSA emphasized that preparation is key for visitors travelling to Canada during the tournament period, particularly as border traffic is expected to increase significantly at airports, land crossings, and marine ports.
“A FIFA World Cup ticket is not a ticket into the country,” the agency stated, reminding travellers to verify entry requirements well before departure. Officials stressed that there is no special “FIFA visa” and that all international travellers must carry valid travel documents, including passports.
The CBSA encouraged travellers arriving by air to take advantage of the Advance Declaration system, which allows visitors to complete customs and immigration declarations up to 72 hours before arrival. The service is available at major Canadian international airports, including Vancouver International Airport, Toronto Pearson International Airport, and Montréal-Trudeau International Airport.
FIFA World Cup accredited travellers were also advised to carry accreditation letters and present them to border officers upon arrival to help facilitate processing.
For those driving into Canada, border officials warned that game days and holiday weekends could create heavy traffic at land crossings. The CBSA recommended travelling early in the morning, checking border wait times in advance, and considering alternative ports of entry to reduce delays.
The agency also issued reminders about Canada’s strict border laws surrounding firearms, cannabis, drugs, and restricted goods. Travellers were warned not to bring cannabis across the border in any form, despite cannabis being legal in Canada domestically.
“Crossing with cannabis in any form and in any amount, including products or oils containing tetrahydrocannabinol (THC) or cannabidiol (CBD), without a permit or exemption authorized by Health Canada is a serious criminal offence,” the CBSA said.
The agency further cautioned travellers against transporting undeclared goods, prohibited food products, illegal drugs, or fireworks not authorized for import into Canada. Fireworks will also be banned from FIFA World Cup fan zones and stadiums.
Public Safety Minister Gary Anandasangaree said Canada is strengthening security coordination with international and domestic partners ahead of the tournament.
“As Canada welcomes fans and teams for this world-class event, the Canada Border Services Agency has put in place personnel, equipment and intelligence and is working closely with the United States, Mexico, and local law enforcement partners to defend our borders and protect our communities from dangerous drugs, weapons, and organized crimes,” Anandasangaree said.
“As we celebrate sport and cooperation across the globe, we are steadfast in our commitment to uphold the safety and security during FIFA World Cup 2026.”
Secretary of State for Sport and Canada’s FIFA Sherpa, Adam van Koeverden, described the event as a major opportunity for Canada on the global stage.
“The FIFA World Cup 2026 is a celebration that will unite fans, teams and communities from every corner of the globe,” van Koeverden said.
“This historic event will showcase Canada’s vibrant culture and hospitality, as well as bring significant economic benefits and a lasting legacy for our country. With partners at every level, we are building a safe, seamless and unforgettable experience for the world.”
The CBSA also reminded travellers that anyone carrying CAN$10,000 or more must declare it upon entry or exit from Canada, though there are no restrictions on the amount of money travellers can carry.
Additionally, the agency encouraged honesty during border inspections and urged travellers unsure about declaration requirements to speak directly with CBSA officers.
The advisory comes just days after the Government of Canada announced additional measures aimed at preventing Ebola disease from entering the country, highlighting the federal government’s broader focus on border security and public safety ahead of the tournament.
As preparations intensify for one of the largest sporting events ever hosted in North America, Canadian authorities say cooperation, preparation, and compliance with border regulations will be critical to ensuring visitors enjoy a safe and efficient travel experience throughout FIFA World Cup 2026™.
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