• by Career Wings Immigration

Canada Introduces Temporary Work Permit Exemptions for FIFA 2026

Streamlined Work Authorization for FIFA 2026 Workers

Canada is preparing for an extraordinary moment in sports history: hosting the 76th FIFA Congress and the men’s FIFA World Cup matches in Toronto and Vancouver in 2026. For the first time, the men’s FIFA World Cup will take place on Canadian soil, bringing immense cultural, social, and economic benefits.

To support this landmark event, the Government of Canada has implemented a temporary public policy allowing certain FIFA-invited foreign nationals to work in Canada without the standard work permit requirements.

Why the Policy Was Introduced

Hosting FIFA 2026 will generate substantial tourism, global attention, and economic activity across Canada. To ensure seamless participation of essential workers, Canada is temporarily easing work authorization requirements for individuals invited by FIFA to perform time-limited, event-related duties.

Who Can Benefit from the Exemption?

Eligible foreign nationals must meet all of the following criteria:

• Travel Period: Enter and exit Canada between December 1, 2025, and July 31, 2026.
• FIFA Invitation: Possess an official letter of invitation confirming that the individual is:
  • An employee of FIFA or its affiliates,
  • A contractor providing goods or services to FIFA, or
  • A subcontractor engaged by a FIFA-affiliated entity.
• Work Requirement: The invitation specifies that work will be performed directly related to an official FIFA event during the above period.
• Verification: The individual’s name appears on the official FIFA microsite listing invited persons.

What Requirements Are Exempted?

Eligible individuals may be exempt from:

• Paragraph 183(1)(b) of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations, which prohibits working without authorization.
• Section 196, which normally requires a work permit or other work authorization to be in Canada.

Important: All other immigration requirements remain in effect, including health, security, and admissibility checks.

Policy Duration

• This policy replaces the version signed on October 27, 2025.
• It applies to applications received on or after the signing date.
• The exemption remains in effect until July 31, 2026, unless revoked earlier.

Implications for FIFA-Invited Workers

This exemption provides a simplified process for FIFA-invited workers to enter Canada and participate in the event. Compliance with all remaining immigration requirements, however, is still mandatory.

Career Wings Immigration can help you:

• Verify your eligibility under the FIFA 2026 temporary exemption.
• Review and organize all necessary documentation.
• Ensure smooth entry into Canada without delays or complications.

Take Action: Prepare for FIFA 2026

If you have received a FIFA invitation or your organization employs staff participating in FIFA 2026, it is crucial to act early. Career Wings Immigration provides expert guidance to navigate this temporary work permit exemption, so you can focus on contributing to this historic event.

Contact Career Wings Immigration Today:

• Phone / WhatsApp: +1‑778‑881‑6000
• Email: info@careerwingsimmigration.com
• Website: www.careerwingsimmigration.com
• Instagram: @careerwingsimmigration

Ensure your eligibility and smooth entry to Canada for FIFA 2026 — reach out now.