In this comprehensive guide, we’ll walk you through everything—from the exact dates of Phase 3 lottery applications to detailed price breakdowns across all seating categories, official purchase links, hospitality package options, and insider strategies to maximize your chances. We’ll also cover travel planning essentials, visa requirements, and answers to the most common questions fans are asking right now. Let’s get you ready to experience the greatest World Cup ever staged.

Understanding the 2026 World Cup Ticket Sales Timeline

FIFA has structured ticket sales into multiple phases to ensure fair access for fans worldwide. Here’s where things stand as of November 2025:

Sales Phase	Dates	Ticket Type	Status
Phase 1 (Visa Presale)	Sep 10-19, 2025	Random lottery	CLOSED
Phase 2 (Early Draw)	Oct 27-31, 2025	Random lottery	CLOSED
Phase 3 (Match-Specific)	Dec 11 – Jan 13, 2026	Random lottery	OPENING SOON
Phase 4 (Last Minute)	Spring 2026	First-come-first-served	Coming
Official Resale	April-June 2026	Face value + fee	Coming
Hospitality	NOW	Premium packages	AVAILABLE

What Makes Phase 3 Different?

Phase 3 is the first opportunity to purchase tickets for specific matchups. While earlier phases required applying before knowing which teams would play where, Phase 3 opens six days after the Final Draw on December 5, 2025. This means you’ll know exactly which qualified teams are facing off at each venue, allowing you to strategically target the matches you want most.

The application window runs from December 11, 2025, through January 13, 2026. Unlike first-come-first-served systems, this phase uses a random selection lottery, meaning applying on day one offers no advantage over applying on the final day. FIFA will conduct the draw after January 13, with winners notified in mid-February 2026.

Early phases already saw unprecedented demand, with Phase 1 selling over 2 million tickets despite limited information about specific games. FIFA expects Phase 3 to be even more competitive now that fans can target marquee matchups like opening ceremonies, rivalry games, and knockout rounds.

How to Apply for Phase 3 Tickets: Step-by-Step Process

Successfully navigating the Phase 3 lottery requires preparation and strategy. Here’s exactly what you need to do:

Step 1: Create Your FIFA Account (Do This NOW)

Before December 11 arrives, set up your FIFA Ticketing account:

1. Visit the official FIFA tickets page
2. Click “Create FIFA Account” (completely free)
3. Provide your full legal name, email address, and birthdate
4. Verify your email address within 24 hours
5. Complete your profile with accurate contact information

Important: Your name must match your government-issued ID exactly, as photo identification will be required for venue entry. Any discrepancies can result in denied access, even with valid tickets.

Step 2: Apply During the December 11 – January 13 Window

Once Phase 3 opens, log into your account and begin selecting matches:

• Browse available matches by date, venue, or team
• Choose your seating category (Categories 1-4, explained below)
• Select quantity (up to 4 tickets per match)
• Set your maximum total (40 tickets across all applications)
• Review and confirm your selections

Pro Strategy Tip: Apply for matches at less popular venues like GEHA Field at Arrowhead Complex (Kansas City) or Estadio Akron (Guadalajara). These venues historically see lower demand than New York, Los Angeles, or Toronto, significantly improving your lottery odds while still delivering an incredible World Cup atmosphere.

You can modify your applications anytime before the January 13 deadline. There’s no advantage to applying early—the lottery treats all applications equally regardless of submission time.

Step 3: Wait for the Lottery Draw

After January 13, FIFA processes all applications through their randomized selection system. Several factors influence the draw:

• Match popularity (opening match, finals, and host nation games have lowest odds)
• Venue capacity (larger stadiums offer more tickets)
• Total applications received (high-demand matches may see 50:1 or higher ratios)

Winners receive email notification in mid-February 2026 with payment instructions.

Step 4: Complete Your Purchase Within 48 Hours

If selected, you’ll receive:

• Confirmation email with allocated tickets
• 48-hour payment window (miss it and you lose the allocation)
• All-or-nothing purchase requirement (you must buy ALL allocated tickets)
• Payment options: Major credit cards, debit cards, and select digital payment methods

Tickets are delivered digitally to your FIFA account approximately 30 days before the match. You’ll download them to the official FIFA app for mobile entry at stadiums.

Complete Pricing Guide: What You’ll Actually Pay

FIFA has implemented dynamic pricing for the first time in World Cup history, meaning ticket costs fluctuate based on demand, venue, and matchup significance. Here’s the complete breakdown:

Category 4: Budget-Friendly Options (Upper Corners/Behind Goals)

These seats offer the most affordable entry points while still providing full views of the pitch:

• Group Stage Matches: $60-$155
• Round of 32: $82-$220
• Round of 16: $110-$290
• Quarter-Finals: $165-$380
• Semi-Finals: $290-$680
• Third-Place Match: $220-$455
• Final Match: $455-$1,100

Category 3: Mid-Level Experience

Improved sightlines with better angles, typically along the sides:

• Group Stage Matches: $82-$220
• Round of 32: $110-$290
• Quarter-Finals: $220-$510
• Semi-Finals: $455-$1,020
• USA Opening Match: $1,120
• Final Match: $2,030

Category 2: Premium Viewing

Lower-level seating with excellent pitch views:

• Group Stage Matches: $110-$290
• Knockout Rounds: $165-$680
• Semi-Finals: $680-$1,530
• Final Match: $3,050

Category 1: VIP Center Pitch

The ultimate viewing experience with best-in-house positioning:

• Group Stage Matches: $165-$380
• Round of 32: $220-$510
• Round of 16: $290-$680
• Quarter-Finals: $510-$1,020
• Semi-Finals: $1,020-$2,295
• USA Opening Match: $2,735
• Final Match: $6,000

Understanding Dynamic Pricing

Prices listed represent the range you might pay. Factors affecting final cost include:

• Team popularity (matches featuring Brazil, Argentina, Germany, or host nations cost more)
• Knockout stage progression (prices increase as tournament advances)
• Venue prestige (MetLife Stadium, SoFi Stadium, and Estadio Azteca command premiums)
• Match timing (weekend and evening matches typically cost more than weekday afternoon games)

The system adjusts prices in real-time based on application volume. A high-demand match between traditional rivals might see Category 3 tickets reach the upper limit of $220 for group stage play, while a lower-profile matchup at the same venue could cost just $82.

Special Ticket Categories

Accessibility Tickets: Available for fans requiring wheelchair access or other accommodations. Prices match standard categories, with companion seats at reduced rates. Apply through FIFA.com with required medical documentation.

Youth Tickets: Fans under 18 receive discounted pricing (typically 25-40% off) when accompanied by an adult ticket holder. Both tickets must be purchased in the same transaction.

Group Packages: No special group discounts are offered, but you can coordinate applications with friends to increase chances of sitting together (though allocation isn’t guaranteed).

Official Purchase Channels: Where to Buy Safely

Option 1: FIFA General Public Lottery (Recommended for Most Fans)

Access: FIFA World Cup 2026 Tickets Official Page

Best For: Budget-conscious supporters seeking face-value pricing
Cost Structure: Exact face value with no markups or service fees
Advantages: Lowest prices available, official guarantee, digital ticket delivery
Disadvantages: Lottery-based allocation means success isn’t guaranteed

This is the primary method for most fans and offers the best value. Success rates vary dramatically—popular matches might see 3-5% acceptance rates while smaller matchups could reach 40-50% acceptance.

Option 2: National Federation Allocations

Example: U.S. Soccer Insiders Program for American fans

Best For: Dedicated national team supporters
Cost Structure: Face value, but requires federation membership
Advantages: Follows your team’s journey, guaranteed seating sections with fellow fans
Disadvantages: Very limited allocation (typically under 5% of venue capacity), must qualify through membership programs

Most national associations require paid membership and offer priority access to loyal supporters who’ve attended previous matches or maintained memberships over multiple years.

Option 3: Official Resale Platform

Opens: April-May 2026
Access: Through FIFA.com resale section

Best For: Fans who missed lottery phases or need additional tickets
Cost Structure: Face value plus modest FIFA service fee (typically 10-15%)
Advantages: Secure transaction, guaranteed authenticity
Disadvantages: Limited inventory, popular matches sell out within minutes

This platform opens when initial ticket holders can no longer attend and need to transfer tickets. All sales go through FIFA’s secure system at face value plus a small processing fee.

Option 4: Premium Hospitality Packages

Access: FIFA Official Hospitality
Provider: On Location (FIFA’s exclusive hospitality partner)

Best For: Premium experience seekers with larger budgets
Cost Structure: $1,400-$50,000+ depending on package
Advantages: Guaranteed tickets, all-inclusive experiences, luxury amenities
Disadvantages: Significantly higher cost than standard tickets

We’ll explore hospitality options in detail in the next section.

Avoiding Scams and Unauthorized Sellers

Never purchase from:

• Viagogo, StubHub, or Craigslist before official resale opens
• Social media “ticket brokers” claiming guaranteed access
• Third-party agents promising VIP treatment at “special prices”
• Any website not directly linked from FIFA.com

Unauthorized tickets are invalid and will be rejected at stadium entrances. FIFA uses sophisticated digital verification that detects counterfeit or transferred tickets not processed through official channels. Protect yourself by only using the official platforms listed above.

Premium Hospitality: The VIP Experience

For fans seeking elevated experiences beyond standard tickets, FIFA’s official hospitality program through On Location offers several tiers. You can explore options and register your interest for premium packages right now.

Single Match Hospitality Package

Starting Price: $1,400 per person

Inclusions:

• Premium Category 1 center-pitch seating
• Pre-match VIP hospitality lounge access (4 hours before kickoff)
• Gourmet buffet with chef-prepared international cuisine
• Premium open bar featuring local wines, spirits, and craft beers
• Post-match lounge access
• Official World Cup commemorative gift package
• Dedicated concierge service
• Expedited stadium entry through VIP lanes

Best Suited For: Fans attending 1-2 matches who want a complete luxury experience without multi-day commitments.

Venue Series Package

Starting Price: $8,275+ per person

Inclusions: Everything in Single Match Package, plus:

• 4-9 matches at a single stadium location
• All matches include pre and post-match hospitality
• Guaranteed seating in same section for all matches
• Exclusive venue tours on non-match days
• Transportation to/from select hotels to stadium
• Priority access to additional match purchases

Available Venues: All 16 host stadiums, with MetLife Stadium packages including the July 19 Final.

Best Suited For: Fans staying in one city throughout the tournament or those who want guaranteed access to multiple matches including potential knockout rounds at major venues.

Follow Your Team Series

Pricing: Custom quotes (typically $12,000-$25,000)

Inclusions:

• All group stage matches for your selected national team
• Round of 32 match if team advances
• Hospitality at each venue (may require travel)
• Priority booking for additional knockout rounds if team progresses
• Team-specific merchandise and collectibles
• Meet-and-greet opportunities with legends (where available)

Availability: All 48 qualified nations except host countries

Best Suited For: Die-hard supporters following their nation’s World Cup journey across multiple cities and potentially multiple countries.

Custom Multi-Match Series

Pricing: $15,000-$50,000+ depending on customization

Inclusions:

• Build your ideal itinerary with 2-8 matches
• Mix group stage and knockout rounds
• Choose specific venues across all three host nations
• Private suite options at select stadiums
• Concierge services for travel coordination between cities
• Luxury ground transportation
• Premium hotel accommodations

Best Suited For: Groups, corporate entertainment, or ultra-premium individual experiences.

How to Book Hospitality

1. Visit the FIFA hospitality registration page
2. Complete the interest form with your preferences
3. An On Location representative contacts you within 48-72 hours
4. Discuss package options, customization, and pricing
5. Reserve with deposit (typically 25-30% upfront)
6. Final payment due 90 days before first match

Hospitality packages are available now and selling quickly for premium matches. The Final at MetLife Stadium and USA matches at SoFi Stadium are expected to sell out by early 2026.

Travel Planning Essentials for International Fans

The 2026 tournament’s three-country format creates unique travel considerations. Here’s what you need to know:

Visa Requirements and FIFA PASS System

For USA Matches:

• FIFA PASS system provides streamlined visa application process
• Ticket holders receive priority appointments at U.S. consulates
• Standard tourist visa requirements apply
• Processing time: 2-8 weeks (apply 3-6 months early recommended)
• Visit ussoccer.com/support for specific country requirements

For Canada Matches:

• eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for visa-exempt countries
• Visitor visa for others
• FIFA coordination with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
• Processing: 1-4 weeks

For Mexico Matches:

• Many nationalities enter visa-free for tourism
• Check specific requirements at embamex.sre.gob.mx
• FIFA assistance available for complex cases

Pro Tip: Apply for visas immediately after receiving ticket confirmation. Summer 2026 will see unprecedented demand at consular offices, potentially causing delays.

Hotel Booking Strategy

Tournament dates run June 11 – July 19, 2026 (39 days). Hotel prices will surge dramatically in host cities:

Current Recommendations:

• Book refundable rooms NOW at normal rates
• Expect 200-300% price increases during match days
• Consider staying 30-60 minutes outside city centers
• Airbnb and vacation rentals offer alternatives
• Book multiple nights (hotels often require minimum stays during tournament)

Hottest Hotel Markets (Book Earliest):

1. New York/New Jersey (hosts Final)
2. Los Angeles (USA opener)
3. Mexico City (Opening Match)
4. Toronto (Canada’s largest venue)
5. Miami (popular travel destination + World Cup)

Multi-City Travel Considerations

The tournament spans 16 cities across 3 countries, creating logistical challenges for fans attending multiple matches:

Regional Clusters (Easier multi-match attendance):

Western Region:

• Los Angeles, San Francisco Bay Area, Seattle, Vancouver
• 2-3 hour flights between cities
• Consider rental car for US cities

Central Region:

• Dallas, Houston, Kansas City, Guadalajara, Monterrey
• 1-3 hour flights
• Border crossing considerations between US/Mexico

Eastern Region:

• New York, Philadelphia, Boston, Atlanta, Miami, Toronto
• Strong regional rail and flight connections
• 1-3 hour travel times

Timeline Recommendation: Allow at least 2-3 days between matches in different cities. This accounts for travel days, time zone adjustments (tournament spans 4 time zones), and recovery time.

Transportation Between Venues

Flights: Most efficient for distances over 300 miles. Book early as tournament dates approach—airlines will increase prices and capacity fills quickly.

Trains: Excellent for Northeast Corridor (Boston-New York-Philadelphia). Limited options elsewhere in North America.

Rental Cars: Practical for regional clusters, especially Western US cities. Book 6+ months ahead for best rates.

Cross-Border Travel:

• US-Canada: Generally smooth, ensure proper documentation
• US-Mexico: More time-consuming, allow extra time at borders
• Mexico-Canada: Requires flight (no practical land route)

Stadium Spotlight: Where the Magic Happens

The tournament features 16 world-class venues. Here’s what makes each special and which matches they’ll host:

MetLife Stadium (East Rutherford, NJ)

Capacity: 82,500
Notable Matches: FIFA World Cup Final (July 19, 2026)
Why It Matters: The biggest match of the tournament. Category 4 tickets start at $2,030 for the final.

Location Advantages:

• 15 minutes from Manhattan via train
• New York City accommodations and attractions
• World-class dining and entertainment

SoFi Stadium (Los Angeles, CA)

Capacity: 70,240
Notable Matches: USA Opening Match
Why It Matters: State-of-the-art facility opened in 2020, will host USA’s tournament opener.

Ticket Demand: USA opener tickets start at $1,120 (Category 3), making this one of the most expensive group stage matches.

Estadio Azteca (Mexico City)

Capacity: 87,523
Notable Matches: Opening Match (June 11, 2026)
Historic Significance: Third time hosting World Cup matches (1970, 1986, 2026). Legendary atmosphere.

Travel Note: At 7,200 feet elevation, consider arriving 2-3 days early for altitude adjustment.

Mercedes-Benz Stadium (Atlanta, GA)

Capacity: 71,000
Notable Matches: Semi-Final
Modern Features: Retractable roof, excellent sightlines, advanced cooling systems.

AT&T Stadium (Dallas, TX)

Capacity: 80,000
Notable Matches: Semi-Final
Unique Feature: Massive center-hung video board, climate-controlled environment.

Venue	Location	Key Feature
Lumen Field	Seattle, WA	Passionate soccer culture
BC Place	Vancouver, BC	Canada’s premiere stadium
BMO Field	Toronto, ON	Intimate atmosphere
Hard Rock Stadium	Miami, FL	South Beach proximity
Lincoln Financial Field	Philadelphia, PA	Historic city setting
Gillette Stadium	Boston, MA	Strong regional support
NRG Stadium	Houston, TX	Southern hospitality
GEHA Field	Kansas City, MO	Often overlooked, great lottery odds
Levi’s Stadium	San Francisco Bay, CA	Tech capital’s showcase
Estadio BBVA	Monterrey, Mexico	Modern Mexican venue
Estadio Akron	Guadalajara, Mexico	Traditional Mexican soccer passion

Insider Strategy: Smaller venues like Kansas City and Guadalajara offer incredible atmosphere and significantly better lottery odds while costing less than marquee locations.

FAQ: Your Ticket Questions Answered

When does Phase 3 open and how long do I have to apply?

Phase 3 opens December 11, 2025 and closes January 13, 2026. You have 34 days to submit applications. There’s no advantage to applying early—the lottery system treats all applications equally regardless of submission time.

What happens if I don’t win the Phase 3 lottery?

You have multiple backup options: wait for Phase 4 (spring 2026, first-come-first-served for remaining tickets), use the official resale platform (opens April-May 2026), or explore hospitality packages which guarantee tickets but at premium prices.

Can I choose my exact seats?

No. FIFA assigns seats within your selected category. While you choose the category level (1-4), exact row and seat numbers are allocated by FIFA. Purchasing multiple tickets in one transaction increases likelihood of being seated together.

Are tickets transferable if my plans change?

Yes, but only through FIFA’s official transfer system. You cannot sell tickets independently or through third-party platforms before FIFA opens official resale. Unauthorized transfers result in ticket cancellation.

How much will I actually spend beyond the ticket price?

Budget for complete trip costs:

• Tickets: $60-$6,000 depending on category and match
• Flights: $300-$2,000 depending on origin and timing
• Hotels: $150-$600 per night (tournament-inflated rates)
• Food/Transportation: $50-$150 per day
• Visa fees: $0-$185 depending on nationality

A realistic budget for an international fan attending 2-3 matches: $3,000-$8,000 total.

Do children need tickets and are they cheaper?

Yes, everyone entering the stadium needs a ticket regardless of age. Youth tickets (under 18) are available at 25-40% discounts but must be purchased alongside adult tickets in the same transaction. Both the child and accompanying adult must enter together.

Your Next Steps: Getting Ready for Phase 3

With Phase 3 opening December 11, here’s your action plan:

This Week:

1. Create your FIFA account at FIFA.com/tickets
2. Verify your email and complete your profile
3. Research match schedule and venue options
4. Set budget for tickets and travel

Before December 5:

1. Watch the Final Draw to see exact matchups
2. Identify which matches interest you most
3. Research participating teams to understand rivalry dynamics
4. Join online fan communities to coordinate group applications

December 11-January 13:

1. Submit lottery applications for desired matches
2. Apply for multiple matches at less popular venues to improve odds
3. Remember the 4-ticket-per-match, 40-ticket-total limits
4. Confirm all details before finalizing

After Lottery Results (Mid-February):

1. If selected: Complete purchase within 48 hours
2. If not selected: Plan for Phase 4 or resale platform
3. Begin visa applications immediately
4. Book refundable hotels and flights

Before Tournament Begins:

1. Download tickets to FIFA app 30 days before matches
2. Confirm travel documentation
3. Review stadium entry requirements
4. Follow latest FIFA 26 updates for any changes

Conclusion

The FIFA World Cup 2026 represents a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to witness history across North America’s greatest cities. With Phase 3 opening December 11, fans finally have the chance to apply for specific matchups after seeing the draw results. Success requires preparation, strategic thinking, and quick action when opportunities arise.

Whether you’re targeting budget-friendly Category 4 seats at smaller venues or splurging on premium hospitality for the final at MetLife Stadium, understanding the system dramatically improves your chances. The lottery levels the playing field—your application on day one has the same odds as day 34—but smart venue selection and backup plans separate those who attend from those who watch at home.

Start now by creating your FIFA account and researching options. With only 12 days until Phase 3 opens and 39 days of tournament action to choose from, your World Cup 2026 adventure begins today.

Ready to secure your tickets? Visit the official FIFA registration page and take the first step toward being part of the greatest World Cup ever staged.