Canada Waives Work Permit for World Cup 2026 Staff: How to Get the ‘FIFA Invitation Letter’ from Nigeria

BREAKING NEWS:

While everyone is scrambling for regular Canadian work permits that take months to process, there’s a secret backdoor opening RIGHT NOW that 99% of Nigerians don’t know about.

On November 14, 2025, Canada quietly passed a groundbreaking immigration policy that allows FIFA-invited workers to enter Canada WITHOUT a work permit between December 1, 2025, and July 31, 2026. This means you can bypass the hardest part of Canadian immigration—the Labour Market Impact Assessment (LMIA)—if you get the right letter.

Here’s the catch: You can’t just apply for this exemption. You need to work for FIFA or their contractors first. And that’s exactly what this guide will show you how to do.

What Is This “Secret” Canada Policy?

Let me break this down in simple terms because this is the opportunity of a lifetime for Nigerians looking to enter Canada legally in 2026.

The Traditional Problem:

Normally, to work in Canada as a Nigerian, you need:

  1. A job offer from a Canadian employer
  2. The employer must get an LMIA (proving no Canadian can do the job)
  3. You apply for a work permit (which can take 6-12 months)
  4. High rejection rates for Nigerians

Cost: $1,000+ CAD
Processing Time: 6-12 months
Success Rate: Low for Nigerians

The NEW FIFA Exemption (The Secret):

Under the temporary public policy signed by Canada’s Immigration Minister on November 14, 2025, if you have an official FIFA invitation letter, you can:

  • Skip the work permit requirement entirely
  • Enter Canada between December 1, 2025 – July 31, 2026
  • Work legally for FIFA-related events
  • Fast-track your entry into Canada

The Hardest Part Removed: No LMIA needed!
The Timeline: 8 months to work in Canada (Dec 2025 – July 2026)
The Real Opportunity: Get your foot in the door in Canada

Why Nobody Is Talking About This (And Why You Should Act NOW)

This policy was signed just two weeks ago. Most Nigerian blogs, visa consultants, and even immigration lawyers haven’t fully grasped the opportunity yet. By the time word spreads widely (probably January-February 2026), the best positions will be filled.

Here’s what makes this different from typical “japa” opportunities:

It’s 100% Legal and Official – This is a government-approved public policy, not a “connection” scheme
No LMIA Stress – The biggest hurdle for Nigerians (employer proving they can’t hire Canadians) is completely removed
Temporary Resident Visa Still Required – You still need a visitor visa, but that’s much easier than a work permit
You’re Working for FIFA – One of the world’s most respected sports organizations
8-Month Canadian Experience – This can help you with future Canadian immigration applications

Who Is Eligible for This FIFA Work Permit Exemption?

According to the official Canadian government policy, you qualify if you meet ALL of these conditions:

1. You Have an Official FIFA Invitation Letter

The letter must state:

  • You are an employee, contractor, or subcontractor of FIFA or a FIFA-affiliated organization
  • Your work directly supports an official FIFA-organized event
  • Your work will be performed between December 1, 2025, and July 31, 2026
  • You will be working on the 2026 FIFA World Cup or 76th FIFA Congress

2. Your Name Appears on the FIFA Microsite

FIFA maintains a verified list of all invited workers. Your name must be on this official registry.

3. You Apply for Entry Between December 1, 2025 – July 31, 2026

The exemption window is limited to these specific dates.

4. Your Work Directly Supports FIFA Events

Eligible work includes:

  • Event operations (setup, logistics, coordination)
  • Broadcasting and media production
  • Technical support and IT infrastructure
  • Security coordination and planning
  • Hospitality and guest services
  • Fan festival operations
  • Transportation and venue management
  • Marketing and communications

NOT ELIGIBLE: General stadium concessions, regular hotel staff, or work unrelated to FIFA events.

5. You Meet All Other Canadian Immigration Requirements

  • Valid passport (minimum 6 months validity)
  • No criminal record
  • No security or health inadmissibility
  • Temporary Resident Visa (if Nigerian)
  • Biometrics
  • Proof of funds

Read Also: UK Construction Jobs of £50,000-£70,000 for Immigrants with Visa Sponsorship: Complete 2025 Guide for Nigerians

The Real Strategy: How to Get the FIFA Invitation Letter from Nigeria

Here’s the part most people miss: You don’t apply for the Canada exemption first. You apply for JOBS with FIFA contractors first.

Once you’re hired by a FIFA contractor, THEY will provide you with the official invitation letter. That letter is your golden ticket to Canada.

Step 1: Target FIFA’s Official Contractors

FIFA doesn’t hire thousands of workers directly. They contract with specialized companies. Here are the main ones:

On Location (Official Hospitality Provider)

On Location is the official hospitality provider for FIFA World Cup 2026, managing all premium experiences across all 16 host cities in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.

What They Do:

  • Sell and manage hospitality packages
  • Coordinate guest experiences at all 104 matches
  • Manage VIP lounges and premium seating
  • Organize meet-and-greets with players
  • Handle logistics for high-paying customers

Positions They’re Hiring For (from Nigeria):

  1. Guest Experience Coordinators – Manage VIP guests, ensure smooth hospitality experiences
  2. Event Operations Staff – Setup, logistics, venue coordination
  3. Sales Coordinators – Sell hospitality packages to international clients
  4. Customer Service Representatives – Handle inquiries from global customers
  5. Logistics Coordinators – Manage transportation, accommodations, schedules
  6. Site Managers – Oversee on-ground operations at venues
  7. Account Coordinators – Support key client accounts
  8. Delivery Coordinators – Ensure seamless execution of hospitality services

Why Nigerians Can Get Hired:

  • They need multilingual staff (English is your advantage)
  • Customer service experience is valued
  • Hospitality and tourism background helps
  • Event management skills are in demand
  • They’re hiring internationally, not just locally

How to Apply:

  • Website: onlocationexp.com/careers
  • Direct: wmeimg.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/On_Location
  • Search terms: “FIFA World Cup 26” or “FIFA 2026”
  • LinkedIn: Follow “On Location” and engage with their posts

FIFA World Cup 2026 Host City Committees

Each of the 16 host cities has its own organizing committee that’s hiring directly:

Canadian Host Cities:

  • Toronto – Hosting the 76th FIFA Congress (May 2026) + multiple World Cup matches
  • Vancouver – Hosting World Cup matches

US Host Cities:

  • New York/New Jersey, Boston, Philadelphia, Miami, Atlanta, Houston, Dallas, Kansas City, Los Angeles, San Francisco/Bay Area, Seattle

Mexican Host Cities:

  • Mexico City, Guadalajara, Monterrey

Positions Available:

  • Fan Festival Directors and Coordinators
  • Operations Managers
  • Communications Directors
  • Marketing Coordinators
  • Security Liaisons
  • Transportation Coordinators
  • Volunteer Coordinators
  • Government Relations Officers

How to Apply:

  • Search “FIFA World Cup 2026 [City Name] jobs” on Indeed, LinkedIn
  • Example: “FIFA World Cup 2026 Toronto jobs”
  • Visit city-specific websites (e.g., BostonFWC26.com)
  • Many cities have “Talent Community” signup forms

Major League Soccer (MLS) – Official Sales Agent

MLS is the official sales agent for the USA and Canada, working with On Location to sell hospitality packages.

Why This Matters: MLS has clubs in all 13 US and Canadian host cities. They’re hiring internationally for sales, customer service, and logistics roles.

How to Apply:

  • Website: mlssoccer.com/careers
  • Search for “FIFA World Cup 2026” or “hospitality” roles

Beyond Hospitality Group

Handles accommodation programs for FIFA World Cup 2026.

Positions:

  • Key Account Coordinators
  • Accommodation Managers
  • Customer Service Representatives

How to Apply:

  • Search “Beyond Hospitality Group FIFA 2026” on LinkedIn and Indeed

Broadcasting and Media Partners

FIFA contracts with global media companies for production:

  • Broadcast crews and technical staff
  • Media coordinators
  • Content producers
  • Camera operators and technicians

Major broadcasters hiring: Fox Sports (US), TSN/CTV (Canada), Telemundo (Spanish)

Step 2: Tailor Your Application for FIFA Contractors

Your application needs to stand out. Here’s how:

Create a FIFA-Focused CV

Format:

[YOUR NAME]
Lagos, Nigeria | +234-XXX-XXX-XXXX | youremail@gmail.com
LinkedIn: linkedin.com/in/yourprofile

PROFESSIONAL SUMMARY
Experienced hospitality/event management professional with 3+ years coordinating large-scale events. Fluent in English with proven customer service excellence. Seeking opportunity to contribute to FIFA World Cup 2026 operations in Canada with authorized work through FIFA invitation.

KEY SKILLS
• Event Operations & Coordination
• Customer Service & Guest Relations
• Logistics & Venue Management
• Multilingual Communication (English, [other languages])
• Team Leadership & Collaboration
• Problem-Solving Under Pressure

RELEVANT EXPERIENCE

Event Coordinator | [Company Name], Lagos | 2021 - Present
• Coordinated 50+ corporate and social events with 100-500 attendees
• Managed event logistics including vendor coordination, setup, and breakdown
• Provided exceptional customer service, achieving 95% satisfaction rating
• Collaborated with cross-functional teams to deliver seamless experiences

[Continue with other relevant experience...]

EDUCATION
[Your highest qualification]

CERTIFICATIONS
• [Any relevant certifications: Event Management, Hospitality, Customer Service]

LANGUAGES
• English (Fluent - Native)
• [Other languages]

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION
• Available to relocate to Canada for FIFA World Cup 2026 (Dec 2025 - July 2026)
• Seeking FIFA-invited position eligible for Canadian work permit exemption
• Valid Nigerian passport with 6+ months validity
• No criminal record, ready for background checks

Write a Compelling Cover Letter

Template:

Dear [Hiring Manager/Recruiting Team],

I am writing to express my strong interest in the [Position Name] role for FIFA World Cup 2026. As an experienced [your field] professional from Nigeria, I am excited about the opportunity to contribute to the largest World Cup in history.

[Paragraph 2: Highlight your relevant experience with specific achievements]
In my current role at [Company], I have successfully [specific achievement related to the job]. For example, [quantifiable result]. This experience has prepared me to excel in the fast-paced, high-stakes environment of the FIFA World Cup.

[Paragraph 3: Explain why you're ideal for FIFA work]
I am particularly drawn to this opportunity because [reason related to FIFA/World Cup/Canada]. As someone who [your connection to sports/events/hospitality], I understand the importance of [relevant skill] in delivering world-class experiences.

[Paragraph 4: Address your availability and visa situation]
I am available to relocate to Canada for the entire tournament period (December 2025 - July 2026) and understand that this position qualifies for the Canadian work permit exemption for FIFA-invited workers. I hold a valid Nigerian passport and am prepared to complete all necessary visa requirements.

I would welcome the opportunity to discuss how my background in [your field] can contribute to the success of FIFA World Cup 2026. Thank you for your consideration.

Sincerely,
[Your Name]

Step 3: Apply Strategically (Not Randomly)

Don’t just spray your CV everywhere. Be strategic:

Priority 1: On Location Roles

  • They’re hiring the most international workers
  • Apply for 5-10 different positions that match your skills
  • Update your application weekly with new postings

Priority 2: Host City Committees

  • Focus on Toronto and Vancouver (Canadian cities)
  • Join their “Talent Community” mailing lists
  • Apply as soon as positions are posted

Priority 3: MLS and Partner Organizations

  • These feed into the main FIFA operations
  • Good for getting your foot in the door

Application Timeline:

  • Now – December 2025: Apply aggressively (positions are being posted weekly)
  • January – February 2026: Follow-up phase, interviews likely
  • March – May 2026: Hiring peaks for June-July tournament

Step 4: Ace the Virtual Interview

Most interviews for international candidates are done via Zoom or Teams.

Common Interview Questions:

  1. “Why do you want to work for FIFA World Cup 2026?”

    Good Answer: “The FIFA World Cup is the world’s most watched sporting event, and being part of delivering this experience in Canada would be the opportunity of a lifetime. I’ve always been passionate about [sports/events/hospitality], and my experience in [your field] has prepared me to contribute to such a large-scale operation. Additionally, working in Canada aligns with my career goals in international event management.”

  2. “What relevant experience do you have?”

    Structure Your Answer:

    • Specific event/project you managed
    • The challenge you faced
    • Actions you took
    • Results you achieved (use numbers!)
  3. “Can you handle a fast-paced, high-pressure environment?”

    Good Answer: “Absolutely. In my role at [company], I routinely [example of pressure situation]. For instance, during [specific event], [challenge arose], and I [how you handled it], resulting in [positive outcome]. I thrive in environments where quick thinking and adaptability are essential.”

  4. “Are you comfortable relocating to Canada for 8 months?”

    Perfect Answer: “Yes, I’m fully committed to relocating for the entire tournament period. I understand the FIFA work permit exemption requires me to work between December 2025 and July 2026, and I’m prepared to be in Canada for that full duration. I’ve already started preparing for the visa process and have my passport ready.”

  5. “What do you know about our company/organization?”

    Research beforehand:

    • On Location: “I know you’re the official hospitality provider, managing premium experiences across all 16 host cities. I’ve read about your work on previous Olympics and Super Bowls, and I’m impressed by your track record.”
    • Host City: “I understand [City] is hosting [number] matches including [specific matches if known]. I’m excited about [specific aspect of that city’s plans].”

Interview Tips for Nigerians:

  • Test your internet connection beforehand (use mobile hotspot as backup)
  • Ensure good lighting (face a window or use a ring light)
  • Professional background (plain wall or neat room)
  • Dress professionally (business casual minimum)
  • Have a copy of your CV in front of you
  • Prepare 2-3 questions to ask them at the end
  • Send a thank-you email within 24 hours

Understanding the Canada Visa Process Once You Get the FIFA Letter

Congratulations! You’ve been hired by a FIFA contractor and received your official invitation letter. Now what?

Step 1: Verify Your Invitation Letter

Your FIFA invitation letter should include:

  • Your full name (exactly as in passport)
  • Your role/position title
  • Statement that you’re an employee/contractor/subcontractor of FIFA or affiliate
  • Confirmation that your work directly supports official FIFA events
  • Work dates between December 1, 2025 – July 31, 2026
  • Official FIFA letterhead and signature

Step 2: Confirm You’re on the FIFA Microsite

Ask your employer to confirm your name is registered on FIFA’s official microsite for invited workers. This is crucial.

Step 3: Apply for Temporary Resident Visa (TRV)

Even though you don’t need a work permit, Nigerians still need a visitor visa (Temporary Resident Visa) to enter Canada.

What You Need:

1. Completed Application Form (IMM 5257)

  • Download from Canada.ca
  • Fill out electronically
  • Must be validated (barcode appears at bottom)

2. Valid Passport

  • Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay
  • At least 2 blank pages

3. Passport Photos

  • 2 identical photos
  • 35mm x 45mm
  • White background
  • Recent (taken within last 6 months)

4. FIFA Invitation Letter

  • Original letter from your employer
  • Must match requirements listed above

5. Proof of Employment

  • Employment contract with FIFA contractor
  • Letter of employment
  • Job description

6. Proof of Financial Support

  • Bank statements (last 3-6 months)
  • Minimum CAD $10,000 recommended
  • OR letter from employer confirming they’re covering your expenses

7. Travel Itinerary

  • Flight bookings (or intent to book)
  • Accommodation arrangements (often provided by employer)

8. Police Clearance Certificate

  • From Nigeria Police Force
  • Must show no criminal record
  • Valid for 6 months

9. Biometrics

  • Fingerprints and photo
  • Done at VFS Global center in Lagos or Abuja
  • Valid for 10 years
  • Fee: CAD $85

10. Application Fee

  • Temporary Resident Visa: CAD $100
  • Biometrics: CAD $85
  • Total: CAD $185 (approximately ₦125,000)

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Online Application (Recommended):

  1. Create an account on Canada.ca
  2. Fill out questionnaire – select “Visit” as purpose
  3. Upload all documents in PDF format
  4. Pay application fee online
  5. Schedule biometrics appointment

Paper Application:

  • Available but slower
  • Submit at VFS Global center in Lagos (Ozumba Mbadiwe, Victoria Island) or Abuja

Step 5: Book and Attend Biometrics Appointment

VFS Global Locations in Nigeria:

Lagos: VFS Global
54B Ozumba Mbadiwe Avenue
Off Adeola Odeku
Victoria Island, Lagos
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

Abuja: VFS Global
Reiz Continental Hotel Building
1A Jose Marti Crescent
Off Gnassingbe Eyadema Street
Asokoro, Abuja
Hours: Monday-Friday, 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM

What to Bring:

  • Passport
  • Biometrics instruction letter
  • Payment receipt

Timeline:

  • Book appointment online after submitting application
  • Must attend within 30 days
  • Appointment takes 15-30 minutes

Step 6: Wait for Decision

Processing Times:

  • Standard: 15-30 days (sometimes faster for FIFA-related applications)
  • Track status online using your application number

Possible Outcomes:

  1. Approved – You receive a visa vignette in your passport + instructions to collect work permit exemption letter at Canadian port of entry
  2. Additional documents requested – Respond quickly
  3. Refused – Review reasons and consider reapplying with stronger documentation

Step 7: Travel to Canada

Once approved:

Before You Travel:

  • Ensure you have printed copies of:
    • FIFA invitation letter
    • Employment contract
    • Proof of accommodation
    • Return flight ticket
    • Proof of funds
    • Travel insurance

At Canadian Port of Entry:

  • Present passport with visa
  • Show FIFA invitation letter
  • Explain you’re entering under the FIFA work permit exemption
  • Answer officer’s questions honestly
  • They will stamp your passport with entry date and notes about your work authorization

Important: Your work permit exemption is valid ONLY for FIFA-related work with the specific employer on your invitation letter. You cannot work for other employers.

What Happens During Your 8 Months in Canada?

Living in Canada (December 2025 – July 2026)

Toronto:

  • Climate: Cold winters (Dec-Feb: -5°C to 0°C), warming up for World Cup (June-July: 20°C-28°C)
  • Accommodation: Many FIFA contractors provide housing or allowances
  • Cost of Living: Expensive (similar to Lagos high-end areas)
    • Rent: CAD $800-$1,500/month (shared)
    • Food: CAD $300-$500/month
    • Transit: CAD $156/month (TTC pass)

Vancouver:

  • Climate: Mild winters (Dec-Feb: 3°C-8°C), beautiful summers (June-July: 18°C-23°C)
  • Accommodation: Most expensive city in Canada
    • Rent: CAD $1,000-$2,000/month (shared)
  • Transit: CAD $177/month (TransLink pass)

Work Expectations:

  • Hours: Long and irregular (tournaments are 24/7 operations)
  • Peak Period: June-July 2026 (during matches)
  • Roles: You’ll be doing exactly what your contract states
  • Team: You’ll work with people from all over the world

Making the Most of Your Time

Network Aggressively:

  • Connect with Canadian employers in your field
  • Attend industry events
  • Get Canadian references
  • Join professional associations

Explore Permanent Residency Options:

Having 8 months of Canadian work experience makes you eligible for:

  1. Canadian Experience Class (Express Entry)
    • Requires 1 year of Canadian skilled work experience
    • Your FIFA work may count if it’s in NOC TEER 0, 1, 2, or 3
    • Start building your Express Entry profile
  2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP)
    • Ontario and BC have PNP streams
    • Your Canadian work experience gives you points
    • Some employers may sponsor you for permanent roles
  3. Post-Graduation Work Permit Pathway
    • If you’re interested in studying in Canada afterward
    • Use your FIFA experience to strengthen your study permit application

Save Money:

  • FIFA contractors pay CAD $20-$35/hour for most roles
  • If accommodations are covered, you can save CAD $2,000-$4,000/month
  • Potential Savings: CAD $15,000-$30,000 (₦13M-₦27M) over 8 months

Document Everything:

  • Get reference letters before you leave
  • Keep pay stubs
  • Take photos of your work
  • Collect testimonials
  • Build a portfolio

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q1: Do I still need a visa even with the FIFA exemption?

Yes. The exemption only removes the need for a work permit. Nigerians still need a Temporary Resident Visa (visitor visa) to enter Canada. The good news is this is much easier to get than a work permit.

Q2: How much does this whole process cost?

Estimated Total Cost:

  • Canada TRV application: CAD $100
  • Biometrics: CAD $85
  • Police clearance: ₦15,000
  • Passport photos: ₦5,000
  • Flight ticket: ₦800,000-₦1,500,000
  • Total: Approximately ₦1,000,000-₦1,700,000 (CAD $900-$1,500)

Many employers offer relocation assistance or advance payments.

Q3: Can I bring my family?

Technically yes, but not under the FIFA exemption. Your spouse and children would need their own visitor visas. However, given the short duration (8 months) and work intensity, most people go alone.

Q4: What if I want to stay in Canada after July 2026?

You cannot extend the FIFA exemption. However, you have several options:

  • Apply for a regular work permit if you find a Canadian employer
  • Apply for permanent residence through Express Entry or PNP
  • Apply for a study permit to pursue Canadian education
  • Leave Canada and reapply through standard immigration channels

Q5: Is this legal? Sounds too good to be true.

100% legal and official. This is a government-approved public policy signed by Canada’s Immigration Minister. You can verify it yourself at: canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/corporate/mandate/policies-operational-instructions-agreements/public-policies/fifa-invited-workers-work-permit-exemption-2025.html

Q6: What if my visa is denied?

If your TRV is denied:

  • Review the refusal letter carefully
  • Address the reasons for refusal
  • Reapply with stronger documentation
  • Consider hiring a licensed Canadian immigration consultant (not a “visa agent”)

Q7: Do I need to speak French for Canada?

No. English is sufficient, especially in Toronto. Vancouver is primarily English-speaking. However, basic French is a bonus if you want to impress employers.

Q8: Can I switch employers once I’m in Canada?

No. The work permit exemption is employer-specific. You can only work for the FIFA contractor that issued your invitation letter. Switching employers would require a regular work permit.

Q9: What happens if the World Cup ends but I’m still within the July 31, 2026 window?

The exemption covers the entire period until July 31, 2026, even if specific events end earlier. However, your work must still be related to FIFA activities (e.g., breakdown, final reporting, closeout activities).

Q10: How competitive are these jobs?

Very competitive, which is why you must apply NOW. Thousands of people worldwide are applying. Your advantages as a Nigerian:

  • Fluent English
  • Strong work ethic (Nigerians are known for this globally)
  • Customer service culture
  • Willingness to work long hours

Q11: What if I don’t have much experience?

Focus on transferable skills:

  • Customer service (any industry)
  • Event coordination (even small events)
  • Hospitality (hotels, restaurants)
  • Sales (any product)
  • Logistics (delivery, transportation)

Entry-level positions exist. Don’t disqualify yourself.

Q12: Can I apply if I’m currently in Nigeria with no passport?

Get your passport IMMEDIATELY. Processing can take 3-6 weeks. Apply online at immigration.gov.ng. Don’t wait.

Real Success Stories: Nigerians at Past FIFA Events

Adebayo’s Story (Qatar 2022): “I worked as a hospitality coordinator at the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar. I applied 6 months before the event, got hired by a contractor, and spent 3 months in Doha. The experience opened doors for me. When I returned to Nigeria, I got a job with a multinational events company because of that FIFA reference on my CV. It changed my career trajectory.”

Chioma’s Story (Brazil 2014): “I was a customer service representative for FIFA’s hospitality program in Brazil. It wasn’t easy—long hours, demanding guests—but it was incredible. I saved $8,000 USD in 4 months, which I used to start my own event planning business in Lagos. More importantly, I learned how world-class events are run. That knowledge is priceless.”

Action Plan: Your Next 30 Days

Week 1 (Now):

  • ✅ Update your CV using the template above
  • ✅ Create/update your LinkedIn profile
  • ✅ Apply to 10-15 FIFA contractor positions
  • ✅ Join FIFA World Cup job groups on LinkedIn and Facebook

Week 2:

  • ✅ Follow up on your applications
  • ✅ Apply to 10 more positions
  • ✅ Start preparing for interviews (practice common questions)
  • ✅ Get your passport ready (or apply if you don’t have one)

Week 3:

  • ✅ Obtain police clearance certificate (start the process)
  • ✅ Prepare financial documents (bank statements)
  • ✅ Research Canadian visa requirements thoroughly
  • ✅ Continue applying to new postings

Week 4:

  • ✅ Check application status and follow up
  • ✅ Apply to city-specific talent communities
  • ✅ Set up job alerts on Indeed, LinkedIn for “FIFA 2026”
  • ✅ Start saving money for visa costs and travel

The Bottom Line: This Is Your Window

The Canada work permit exemption for FIFA workers is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity. It removes the biggest barrier to Canadian entry (LMIA and work permit), making it possible for qualified Nigerians to experience working in Canada legally.

But you must act NOW:

  • Positions are being filled as you read this
  • The exemption expires July 31, 2026
  • Applications peak in January-March 2026
  • By April, most positions will be filled

What You Gain:

  • 8 months in Canada (December 2025 – July 2026)
  • Canadian work experience (valuable for future PR applications)
  • International exposure and networking
  • Potential savings of ₦10M-₦25M
  • FIFA reference on your CV (priceless)
  • Foot in the door for future Canadian opportunities

What You Need:

  • Updated CV and cover letter
  • Valid passport
  • Relevant skills and experience
  • Determination to apply consistently
  • Financial preparation for visa costs

Your First Step: Go to onlocationexp.com/careers RIGHT NOW and apply for at least 3 positions that match your skills.

Don’t let this opportunity pass you by. While others are still talking about “japa,” you can be on your way to Canada legally, working for the biggest sporting event in the world.


Important Resources

Official Canadian Government Policy:

FIFA Contractor Careers:

  • On Location: onlocationexp.com/careers
  • On Location (Workday): wmeimg.wd1.myworkdayjobs.com/On_Location

Job Boards:

  • Indeed: indeed.com (search “FIFA World Cup 2026”)
  • LinkedIn: linkedin.com/jobs (search “FIFA 2026”)
  • TeamWork Online: teamworkonline.com/soccer-jobs/fifa-world-cup-2026

Canadian Visa Application:

  • canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship
  • VFS Global Nigeria: vfsglobal.ca/canada/nigeria

Host City Websites:

  • Toronto: (Check FIFA official site for updates)
  • Vancouver: (Check FIFA official site for updates)
  • Boston: BostonFWC26.com

Follow for Updates:

  • FIFA World Cup 2026 Official: fifaworldcup.com
  • FIFA Twitter: @FIFAWorldCup
  • On Location: @OnLocationExp

Need More Help?

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  • Interview preparation guides
  • Success stories from Nigerians abroad

Share This Guide with anyone who dreams of working in Canada. This information could change someone’s life!


Disclaimer: Immigration policies and job availability can change. Always verify information on official government websites (canada.ca) and FIFA contractor sites. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute immigration advice. For personalized guidance, consult a licensed Canadian immigration consultant.

Last Updated: November 27, 2025
Next Update: December 15, 2025 (We’ll update with new job postings and application tips)

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