2026 FIFA World Cup in Canada

The year 2026 will not only be a major milestone for football fans but also a significant moment for Canada. For the first time, the FIFA World Cup will be hosted jointly by three countries: Canada, the United States, and Mexico. Through this grand event, Canada will welcome millions of fans and gain the opportunity to host one of the world’s most high-profile international tournaments.

Naturally, questions have arisen regarding how Canada is preparing, which cities will host the matches, and what impacts this event may have. This comprehensive guide provides detailed insights into the Canadian leg of the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Which Cities in Canada Will Host the 2026 World Cup?

The 2026 FIFA World Cup will mark a new era in the tournament’s history with an expanded format featuring 48 teams. The matches will be split among Canada, the USA, and Mexico, and Canada will host a total of 10 matches.

The Canadian host cities are:

●       Toronto (Ontario)

●       Vancouver (British Columbia)

Montreal was initially included in the plan, but due to financial and logistical reasons, it was later removed from the list. As a result, all World Cup matches in Canada will take place exclusively in Toronto and Vancouver.

Stadiums and Their Capacities:

●       BMO Field (Toronto): Planned expansion to accommodate 45,000 spectators, with ongoing upgrades to meet FIFA standards.

●       BC Place (Vancouver): With a capacity of 55,000, this stadium features a retractable roof and advanced technological infrastructure.

Due to Montreal’s withdrawal, the entire Canadian portion of the tournament will focus on two major cities. This will lead to notable implications in tourism, cultural programming, and urban planning, particularly in Toronto and Vancouver.

At C&C Education Visa and Immigration in Canada, we offer guidance on education and short-term language programs in Toronto and Vancouver for students who wish to experience the World Cup atmosphere firsthand. This period presents unique opportunities for those looking to combine their academic goals with the excitement of global football.

Canada’s Hosting History and Preparations

Although Canada will be hosting a FIFA Men’s World Cup for the first time in 2026, the country has a solid track record of organizing international tournaments. This experience played a significant role in FIFA’s decision to award Canada co-hosting rights.

Previous Tournaments Hosted by Canada:

●       2015 FIFA Women’s World Cup: Hosted in 6 cities with participation from 24 teams

●       2007 FIFA U-20 World Cup

●       2002 FIFA U-19 Women’s World Cup

These tournaments not only tested Canada’s local infrastructure but also strengthened its international reputation as a reliable host nation.

Planned Investments and Preparations for 2026:

●       CAD 50 million investment in Toronto Pearson Airport: Aimed at increasing capacity to accommodate a surge in international fans

●       Public transportation projects: For example, the SkyTrain expansion in Vancouver to improve urban mobility

●       Stadium infrastructure improvements: Enhancing security systems, integrating smart city technologies, and implementing environmental planning, all designed to benefit long-term urban development

●       Fan zones and cultural areas: Open-air spaces in city centers will be created for fan gatherings and cultural programming

Preparations for 2026 aim not only to support the sporting event but also to provide lasting improvements to quality of life in Canada. According to the federal government, a CAD 150 million investment will support upgrades to stadiums, transport infrastructure, and security systems.

Toronto Pearson Airport, in particular, is expected to play a critical role in the tournament’s logistics, welcoming millions of visitors through renovated terminals, expanded services, and increased operational capacity.

Canada’s National Team and Football Culture

The 2026 FIFA World Cup holds historic significance for Canada’s men’s national football team, as the country has secured automatic qualification as one of the host nations. This marks a powerful moment not just for the team and coaching staff, but for millions of fans across the country.

Key Players on the Canadian National Team:

●       Alphonso Davies (Bayern Munich): Known for his speed and technical skills, Davies has become a symbol of Canadian football.

●       Jonathan David (Lille OSC): A young striker with impressive goal-scoring abilities and a strong presence in European football.

●       Stephen Eustáquio (FC Porto): A central midfielder who plays a vital role in the team’s dynamic system.

Football’s Cultural Rise in Canada:

Traditionally overshadowed by ice hockey, football has seen rapid growth in Canada in recent years. Much of this momentum comes from the success of Major League Soccer (MLS) teams such as:

●       Toronto FC

●       CF Montréal

●       Vancouver Whitecaps

These clubs have not only achieved local success but have also performed well in international competitions, expanding the sport’s audience and influence.

Interest in football is rising among younger generations, especially among children of immigrant families, who often view the sport as a form of identity expression. According to the Canadian Soccer Association, between 2022 and 2024, the number of registered players rose by 37%. During this same period, teams like Toronto FC reported record-high stadium attendance rates.

Although football does not yet rival hockey in terms of national popularity, it is rapidly gaining ground. The 2026 World Cup is expected to be a turning point in the sport’s rise across the country.

Match Schedule and Travel Planning for Fans

As excitement builds for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, fans planning to attend the tournament are already beginning to make travel preparations. While FIFA has not yet released the official match schedule, it is confirmed that games will take place between late June and mid-July.

Key Planning Points for Fans:

●       Accommodation and transportation bookings: Ticket sales are expected to begin by the end of 2025. Booking hotels and flights before this date may result in more affordable options.

●       Anticipated price increases: In host cities like Toronto and Vancouver, hotel prices could surge by up to 150% during the tournament period.

●       Intercity travel options: Within Canada, VIA Rail (train), Air Canada, and WestJet will be among the most popular choices. These providers are expected to offer special routes and increased frequencies for the event.

●       Road transport alternatives: Intercity buses will likely add extra services, providing practical and budget-friendly options for fans.

During the 2026 World Cup, the goal is not just to watch football matches, but also to create an experience that includes cultural discovery and social engagement. Early planning can offer significant advantages in terms of both cost and logistics.

Do You Need a Visa to Travel to Canada?

Citizens of Turkey are required to obtain a visa to travel to Canada. For those planning a short visit to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup, a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV) will be sufficient.

Visa Types and Usage Based on Travel Purpose:

●       TRV (Visitor Visa): Suitable for short stays up to 6 months, including watching matches, tourism, or brief business trips.

●       Study Permit: If the trip includes a language course or certificate program, a Study Permit may be more appropriate.

●       Working Holiday (IEC Program): This program is not available to Turkish citizens and cannot be used.

●       eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization): Only available to citizens of visa-exempt countries—Turkey is not eligible for this option.

Required Documents for Visa Application:

●       A valid passport

●       Canada visa application form

●       Biometric data (fingerprints)

●       Flight and accommodation documents

●       Financial proof (e.g., bank statements)

●       A letter of intent explaining the travel purpose

If the World Cup experience is combined with a short-term language course, applying for a Study Permit may be a more flexible option. This type of visa is generally issued for longer stays and multiple entries, making travel within Canada easier.

At C&C Education Visa and Immigration in Canada, we provide expert assistance not only in school placement but also in visa applications, document preparation, and individual planning tailored to your travel goals.

Accommodation Options in Canada During the World Cup

During the 2026 FIFA World Cup, demand for accommodation—especially in host cities like Toronto and Vancouver—is expected to increase significantly. As match dates approach, availability in hotels and short-term rentals may become limited. Therefore, making accommodation plans by the end of 2025 is highly recommended for better pricing and access.

Alternative Accommodation Types and Average Nightly Costs:

For students looking for affordable and safe lodging, homestay programs remain a popular model in Canada. Often integrated with language school programs during summer, this option supports both language learning and cultural exchange.

At C&C Education Visa and Immigration in Canada, we offer language school + homestay packages during the World Cup period, helping students pursue their academic goals while fully experiencing the tournament atmosphere.

Volunteer Programs for Students and Youth

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is more than a sporting event—it’s a global platform offering unique opportunities for young people and students in areas such as social responsibility and career development. Organized jointly by the Canadian government and FIFA, the event is expected to involve thousands of volunteers in a variety of roles.

Possible Volunteer Roles:

●       Stadium guidance and coordination

●       Operational support for media and press members

●       Fan assistance and information services

●       Managing social media content for events

●       Providing language translation services (English, French, Turkish)

These roles offer valuable hands-on experience in communication and event management for young individuals interested in gaining exposure across various domains of the tournament.

Who Can Apply to Volunteer?

●       Must be at least 18 years old

●       Must speak English (French is a strong asset)

●       Must be legally present in Canada (on a visa, study permit, or other valid status)

These volunteer programs are particularly valuable for international students studying in Canada, as they offer a chance to build social networks, accelerate cultural integration, and enhance resumes with meaningful experience. Training sessions, teamwork, and responsibilities in multicultural environments also provide long-term benefits.

What Will the World Cup Bring to Canada in Terms of Tourism and Immigration?

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is not only a sports tournament—it is also expected to have a profound impact on Canada’s economy, socio-cultural landscape, and immigration trends. As one of the host nations, Canada has the potential to attract not just football fans, but also investors, students, and individuals interested in starting a new life.

Key Anticipated Effects:

●       A projected 40% increase in international tourist arrivals

●       A visible rise in immigration applications

●       Global visibility for cities like Toronto and Vancouver

●       Growing interest in Canada among international students

●       Creation of new job opportunities and diversification in the service sector

These developments are not expected to be temporary. Instead, they may trigger long-term economic momentum, cultural exchange, and demographic transformations. For individuals who plan to study or immigrate to Canada, being in cities like Toronto or Vancouver during the tournament could offer valuable insights and networking opportunities.

By participating at the local level, newcomers can gain firsthand exposure to Canadian society, helping them make informed decisions and strategic adaptation plans for long-term integration.

Be Part of the World Cup in Canada in 2026

The 2026 FIFA World Cup is more than just a series of matches—it’s also a unique opportunity to explore Canada, experience its education and lifestyle possibilities, and plan for a potential future in the country. Whether you are a student or a young professional, being in Canada during this period can open doors to valuable observations and experiences.

The tournament atmosphere offers a chance to better understand Canada’s education system, urban life, and social dynamics—all of which contribute to more informed and confident decisions for those planning a long-term stay.

At C&C Education Visa and Immigration in Canada, we offer the following services tailored specifically for the World Cup period:

●       Admission support for language schools

●       Guidance on summer school programs

●       Integrated planning for education, accommodation, and visa processes

●       Preparation of supporting documents that can strengthen visa applications

For individuals considering studying in Canada or simply exploring the country, this time offers not just a thrilling sports experience, but also a meaningful opportunity to shape future plans.