FIFA hiring thousands of World Cup volunteers and here's how to get involved in Vancouver, Toronto

The FIFA World Cup is less than one year away — and it’s going to be one of the biggest sporting events Canada has ever seen.

With 13 matches taking place in Toronto and Vancouver kicking off next June, hundreds of thousands of people will be pouring into the two Canadian cities to watch their national teams play.

Though they’re not officially open for application yet, FIFA has begun its process of recruiting thousands of volunteers in the 16 host cities across Canada, the U.S., and Mexico for the 48-team event.

On a portal on the FIFA website, people can register their interest and fill out a basic contact information form, with applications beginning in August of this year.

“Volunteers are the heartbeat of FIFA events,” the website page reads. “FIFA World Cup 26™ volunteers will be part of a once-in-a-generation team – helping bring to life a tournament uniting three countries, 16 host cities and billions of hearts around the world.”

Volunteer recruitment events are expected to continue this fall, with full offers coming in January and February 2026. Training will then take place next spring, from April to June.

Positions are currently available for those 18 years or older, though those currently 17 years and 11 months can apply.

It’s not totally clear what the FIFA volunteer capabilities will be, or how much access they’ll have in order to actually be on site for match days, with more details expected in the coming months.

The FIFA Volunteer Instagram account is another resource providing updates and further information for those interested in applying.

When is the FIFA World Cup being held?

The FIFA World Cup will take place from June 11 through July 13, 2026.

Vancouver is hosting seven matches for the tournament, including two group stage games featuring the Canadian national team. Toronto, meanwhile, will host five group stage matches (one with the Canadian team) and one knockout round match.