How Indian Students Can Volunteer at FIFA World Cup 26™
USA • Canada • Mexico — 16 host cities, 48 teams, 100+ matches, and a once-in-a-lifetime backstage pass to global sports operations.
Why this is a big deal
- Global scale: The biggest FIFA volunteer programme yet—tens of thousands of roles across 16 cities.
- Career boost: Real-world exposure to event ops, media, transport, spectator services, sustainability, and more.
- Network: Work alongside professionals and volunteers from 3 countries and dozens of nationalities.
- Portfolio value: Great for students eyeing sports management, events, hospitality, or international careers.
Official links (start here)
Eligibility (at a glance)
- Age: 18+ at the time of application.
- Language: Good command of English; Spanish helps in Mexico, French helps in Canada.
- Visa/entry: You must meet the entry/visa rules of the host country you choose.
- Experience: Prior event experience is welcome but not mandatory.
Note: Final criteria and timelines are set by FIFA/host cities. Always follow what’s listed on the official links above.
What you’ll do (sample areas)
Wayfinding, queue management, accessibility support, fan zones.
Crew shuttles, vehicle dispatch, parking operations, load-in/out.
Accreditation desks, media tribunes, mixed zones support.
Checkpoints, uniforms, workforce lounges, back-of-house flow.
Recycling stations, energy-use awareness, accessibility assistance.
Costs, benefits & what’s covered
- It’s unpaid: This is a volunteer role.
- Not covered: Travel, visa, accommodation—plan and budget these yourself.
- Typically provided: Training, uniform, meals during shifts, and a volunteer certificate/thank-you kit.
How to apply (5 quick steps)
- Open the portal: fifaworldcup.com/volunteers and create your volunteer profile.
- Pick one host city—choose where you can actually stay affordably and be available for shifts.
- Fill the form: languages, availability window (June–July 2026), functional area preferences.
- Watch your email for tryouts/briefings and background checks as required.
- Complete training, collect your uniform, and report for assigned shifts.
India-specific tips to stand out
- Show people-facing work: College fests, ISL/Pro Kabaddi volunteering, marathons, Model UN hospitality.
- Stack your languages: English + an Indian language + basic Spanish/French (Duolingo level is fine—mention it).
- Be crystal-clear on availability: Align with your exam calendar and commit to the minimum number of shifts.
- Reliability examples: Punctuality, handling queues, transport dispatch, working cashless kiosks—all translate well.
Practical prep if you’re applying from India
- Passport: Valid well beyond your travel dates.
- Visas: Check official consulate pages for the USA/Canada/Mexico—requirements and lead times differ.
- Budgeting: Flights, stay, local transport, phone/data SIM; keep a contingency.
- City choice: Pick a city where you have support (family/friends) to cut costs.
Fun facts for your Insta/LinkedIn
- Opening match is scheduled in Mexico City’s legendary Estadio Azteca.
- First men’s World Cup with 48 teams and over 100 matches.
- One of the largest sports volunteer programmes ever—amazing networking potential.
Ready to apply?
Start with the official FIFA links below. Read the overview first, then create your profile and submit your application.
🔗 Volunteer Programme Overview
🔗 FIFA Volunteer Application Portal
