The United States Embassy has announced that Panamanian citizens do not need to purchase tickets for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to apply for a U.S. visa.
U.S. Ambassador to Panama, Kevin Marino Cabrera, clarified during a press conference that fans can apply for visas without needing to have tickets in hand. He emphasized that the consular section is processing applications in no more than two months.
“No, it is not necessary to have your tickets to apply for a visa to see Panama's games in the United States,” Cabrera stated.
He urged fans to “start now” with their visa applications to attend matches in U.S. territory.
“The best time to apply for your visa to see a Panama game within the United States is now. And you do not need to present your tickets at the interview either,” the ambassador added.
Cabrera pointed out that this is not a special visa, but a regular tourist visa for the standard period, not just for attending the World Cup.
“A ticket is not a visa. We will welcome everyone in compliance with U.S. visa laws and regulations,” he stated.
Additionally, he noted that the U.S. Department of State is sending hundreds of additional officers to embassies and consulates worldwide to reinforce capacity. In some cases, for holders of B1 and B2 visas who meet certain requirements, renewal may be possible without an in-person interview.
The diplomat also mentioned that Colombian citizens can come to Panama to apply for their World Cup travel visas due to a potential increase in applications at some embassies.
“We will offer a safe, orderly, and world-class World Cup,” Cabrera said.
The FIFA World Cup will be held from June 11 to July 19, 2026, in the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
