Canada: Work Permit Exemption for FIFA-Invited Foreign Nationals Announced

The government of Canada has announced a temporary public policy granting work permit exemptions for certain foreign nationals invited by FIFA to support preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup events in Toronto and Vancouver. Eligible individuals include FIFA or FIFA-affiliate employees, contractors and subcontractors who hold an official letter of invitation from FIFA and will perform short-term, event-related work in Canada between December 1, 2025 and July 31, 2026. These individuals may work in Canada without a work permit during this period (but remain subject to all standard admissibility and entry requirements). This exemption will remain in effect until July 31, 2026, or until the policy is revoked.       

This alert is for informational purposes only. If you have any questions, please contact the global immigration professional with whom you work at Fragomen.