International Visitor Guide: Everything You Need to Know Before Traveling to Dallas for FIFA 2026

If you are traveling to Dallas from outside the United States for the FIFA World Cup 2026, this guide covers everything you need to know before you arrive. From visa requirements and currency to SIM cards and match-day logistics, we have compiled the practical information that will make your trip smoother.

Visa & Entry Requirements

Your FIFA World Cup ticket gets you into the stadium, but it does not grant you entry into the United States. You still need proper travel documentation:

• Visa Waiver Program (ESTA): Citizens of 41 countries (including most of Europe, Japan, South Korea, Australia) can apply for an ESTA online. Apply at least 72 hours before travel. Cost: $21.
• B-1/B-2 Tourist Visa: Citizens of countries not in the Visa Waiver Program need a tourist visa. Apply at your nearest US Embassy or Consulate. Processing times vary—apply early.
• FIFA Pass: FIFA has worked with US authorities to create a streamlined visa process for ticket holders. Check FIFA.com for the latest details on the FIFA Pass program.
• Visa Bonds: Citizens of some countries may be required to post a refundable bond of up to $15,000 as part of the visa process. Check with your local US Embassy for specifics.

Important: Have your passport, visa or ESTA, and travel documents ready before arriving at the airport. US Customs and Border Protection recommends downloading the CBP One app for faster processing.

Currency & Payments

The US Dollar (USD) is the only accepted currency. Credit and debit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express) are accepted virtually everywhere—including small shops, restaurants, and rideshare apps. Apple Pay and Google Pay are widely supported.

• ATMs: Chase and Bank of America ATMs are everywhere. For fee-free withdrawals, use a travel-friendly bank like Wise, Revolut, or Charles Schwab.
• Avoid airport currency exchange kiosks. Their rates are poor. Use your bank’s ATM instead.
• Tipping: Tipping is expected in the US. 18–20% at restaurants, $2–5 for rideshare drivers, $1–2 per drink at bars.

SIM Cards & Internet Connectivity

• eSIM (recommended): Airalo, Holafly, or Nomad offer instant US data plans from $5–15 for 5–10 GB. Set up before you leave home.
• Physical SIM: T-Mobile and AT&T prepaid SIMs are available at DFW Airport, Walmart, and Target. Approximately $30–50 for 30 days of unlimited data.
• WiFi: Most restaurants, malls, and public spaces offer free WiFi. At Southfork Stays, high-speed WiFi is included.

Getting Around Dallas-Fort Worth

The DFW metroplex is car-dependent. Unlike European cities, public transit alone will not get you everywhere. Here is what we recommend:

• Rental car (strongly recommended): Book early—World Cup demand will make cars scarce. Enterprise, Hertz, and Turo all operate at DFW Airport. Expect $50–100/day during the tournament.
• Rideshare: Uber and Lyft operate throughout DFW. Surge pricing on match days can push fares to $60–80+ for stadium trips.
• Public transit for matches: Use the TRE (Trinity Railway Express) to reach AT&T Stadium. Download the GoPass app for tickets.
• Driving: Texas drives on the right. Speed limits are in miles per hour (60–75 mph on highways). Gas stations are plentiful and accept credit cards at the pump.

Weather: Prepare for Texas Heat

June and July in Texas are hot—expect daily highs of 95–105°F (35–40°C) with high humidity. AT&T Stadium is air-conditioned with a retractable roof, but outdoor fan zones and walking to/from venues will be in the heat. Pack sunscreen (SPF 50+), a hat, sunglasses, and a refillable water bottle. Stay hydrated—this is not optional.

Safety & Emergency Information

• Emergency number: Dial 911 for police, fire, or ambulance.
• Hospitals: Medical City Plano (20 min from our estate), Baylor Scott & White (McKinney, 15 min), and multiple urgent care clinics nearby.
• Travel insurance: Strongly recommended for international visitors. US healthcare is expensive without insurance.
• Electricity: The US uses 120V/60Hz with Type A/B plugs. Bring a universal adapter if your devices use a different plug type.
• Water: Tap water is safe to drink throughout the DFW area.

International Grocery Stores Near Parker, TX

The DFW area has an incredible variety of international grocery stores. No matter where you are visiting from, you will find familiar foods nearby:

• Japanese: Mitsuwa Marketplace (18 min), H Mart (15 min)
• Latin American: Fiesta Mart, La Michoacana (multiple locations)
• European: World Market, Aldi, Lidl, IKEA Swedish Food Market
• Middle Eastern: Afrah Mediterranean, International Food Market (Richardson)
• African: Mama Ashanti, African Food Mart (multiple locations)

Your Home Base in Parker, Texas

Southfork Stays is a 6-bedroom luxury estate on 2 acres in Parker, TX—a quiet, safe community 50 minutes from AT&T Stadium. We welcome international guests with high-speed WiFi, a fully equipped Viking kitchen, and detailed local guides in 10 languages. Our hosts speak English and Spanish and are available to help with anything you need during your stay.