The 2026 World Cup in the United States will move thousands of temporary jobs in stadiums, hotels, cleaning, security, transportation, restaurants and events. For many migrants it will be a tempting opportunity. But Working without immigration authorization in the US can have serious consequences, even if the employment lasts a few days.
Yeah you work in the US without a work permit or without a visa authorizing it, you can violate your immigration status. This can affect renewals, future residences, adjustments of status, visa applications or even lead to expulsion proceedings, depending on the case.
What is considered “working”
Not only does formal employment count on the payroll. It can also be considered work:
- Charge for cleaning, cooking or setting up events.
- Handle paid transportation.
- Sell products with commission.
- Paid freelancing in the United States.
- Temporary tasks for companies during the World Cup.
- Work for undeclared cash.
You can see: How to work at the 2026 World Cup in the United States: opportunities
Real risks for migrants
Economic necessity, the urgency to take advantage of a season of high demand or the promise of quick payments can lead many people to accept jobs without reviewing legal consequences.
In global events like the World Cup, where a lot of money circulates and thousands of temporary workers are needed, controls, informality and abuses also increase. That’s why it’s a good idea to understand the risks before saying yes.
Cancellation or violation of status
Those who enter as tourists (B1/B2 or ESTA) do not have regular authorization to work. If they do, they may be in immigration violation.
Future problems with Inexperienced Card or visa
USCIS and consular authorities usually review immigration history. Unauthorized work can complicate future procedures.
Labor exploitation and fraud
Many informal jobs pay less, do not respect schedules and do not offer true job protection.
And another vivid point will be the increase in fraud. In large tournaments, false job offers often appear, supposedly special visas, charges for interviews or promises of privileged access. If an offer asks for money up front or promises guaranteed employment without reviewing documents, it’s a red flag.
Be careful with the 2026 World Cup
The World Cup will not be a minor event: the United States will share the headquarters of a tournament expanded to forty-eight teams and 16 host cities. That implies a huge operation in stadiums, transportation, security, hotels, cleaning, technology and customer service. When there is this level of organization, it also Formal contracting processes and regulatory compliance grow.
FIFA already publishes official vacancies for operations, logistics, human resources, transportation, volunteering and technology positions in different host cities. Many positions are temporary or tournament-specific contracts, which shows that there will be structured recruiting and not just casual last minute work.
Besides, In the United States, employers must verify identity and work eligibility using the I-9 formand some companies use additional systems such as E-Take a look at depending on state, sector or internal policy. In a global event with high public exposure, it is reasonable to expect greater documentary care to avoid sanctions, lawsuits or reputational problems.
That does not mean automatic massive operations against workers, but it does mean that many companies will prefer to hire people with papers in order, registered agencies and formal suppliers.
In other words: during the World Cup there may be more job opportunities, but also less room to improvise with “under the table” jobs.
You can see: Summer jobs in the US: up to $30 per hour and thousands of vacancies without experience
Who can work legally
The possibility of legally working for the 2026 World Cup or in jobs related to the championship depends on immigration status. They will be able to do it without problems:
- Permanent residents
- US citizens
- People with a valid EAD (Employment Authorization Document)
- Holders of qualified work visas
- Some asylees, refugees or protected categories with current authorization
If you are already in the US and want to take advantage of the opportunity
It is most prudent to review your status with a licensed immigration attorney or accredited representative before accepting employment.
Keep in mind that the World Cup will also generate indirect job or economic opportunities: you can legally open your own business or offer services to tourists if you have authorization. You can also take into account rentals permitted by local regulations or the production of digital content.
Inbound tourism will have many to offer and you can look for legal temporary jobs via formal agencies.
Continue reading:
The job in the US that can pay more than $100,000 and can be learned in a few months
Neither the US nor Canada: this is the fan base that will dominate the 2026 World Cup
Best states to live in the US in 2026 if you are Latino: places with more work, support and affordable cost
