The 2025 NFL season will be the league's most global yet, sending seven regular-season matchups to five countries on two continents. That means U.S. fans must juggle REAL ID rules at home, passport checks abroad, and stadium policies that differ from city to city. Whether you bleed midnight green or love the Terrible Towel, planning early will save money, cut stress, and let you tack iconic sights-think Christ the Redeemer or Big Ben-onto your football pilgrimage. Here is the schedule and everything travelers need to know.
Key Points
- Why it matters: Seven overseas games create new passport and ticket hurdles.
- Tickets for every game are already on resale sites.
- Passports now take 8-12 weeks, faster with an expeditor.
- REAL ID is required for domestic legs since May 7, 2025.
- Stadiums abroad also enforce clear-bag rules.
- Check airline carry-on dimensions-sizes may shrink by late 2025.
Snapshot * Ticket & Trip Basics
International tickets drop on different platforms, so set alerts with the NFL, Ticketmaster, and verified resellers. Face values start around $120 in London and climb above $350 for São Paulo. Flight prices track school holidays, not football calendars, so mid-week departures usually save 15 percent. Book lodging near transit hubs, not just near the venue, because London's Tottenham, Dublin's Aviva, and Berlin's Olympiastadion all sit on efficient rail lines. Finally, double-check passport expiration dates-the standard six-month validity rule applies in every host nation.
Background * NFL's Global Push
The league opened its first international office in 1989, but the modern series began in 2007 with annual games at Wembley Stadium. Momentum grew after sell-outs in Mexico City and Munich proved new markets could boost merchandise and media rights. For 2025, owners approved a record seven contests abroad, including inaugural games in Brazil, Ireland, and Spain. Long-term goals include placing over 50 percent of franchises in the "global markets" program by 2028, expanding youth flag-football clinics, and streaming select games free in partner countries.
Latest Developments * 2025 Slate
| Date | Matchup | Venue | From-Price* |
|---|---|---|---|
| Sept 5 | Chiefs vs Chargers | Corinthians Arena, São Paulo | $381 |
| Sept 28 | Vikings vs Steelers | Aviva Stadium, Dublin | TBA |
| Oct 5 | Vikings vs Browns | Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London | $179 |
| Oct 12 | Broncos vs Jets | Tottenham Hotspur Stadium, London | $154 |
| Oct 19 | Rams vs Jaguars | Wembley Stadium, London | $124 |
| Nov 9 | Falcons vs Colts | Olympiastadion, Berlin | $149 |
| Nov 16 | Commanders vs Dolphins | Estadio Wanda, Madrid | $175 |
*Lowest verified resale listing as of July 17, 2025.
Ticket Timing
Most host clubs released season-ticket allotments first, then single-game seats within 48 hours. Resale prices generally dip 10-15 percent six weeks before kickoff, once travel visas CLEAR and speculative sellers exit.
Passport and ID
All domestic legs now require a Real ID-compliant license or a passport. Review The Adept Traveler's Real ID primer for renewal tips and acceptable alternatives. REAL ID and Travel: Everything You Need to Know
Baggage Changes Ahead
The International Air Transport Association is pressing carriers to harmonize cabin-bag limits by year-end 2025. Several European airlines have already adjusted their sizers, so measure before you pack to avoid gate-check fees.
Analysis
Traveling for sports layers fixed kickoff times onto already rigid flight schedules, leaving little room for delays. Fly in at least two days early to absorb jet lag and allow for lost-luggage recovery. Brazil and Spain both require travelers to carry passports at all times, so scan and cloud-store copies. London's venues use a four-six-hour security window; arrive early and explore fan festivals outside the turnstiles. Currency matters too-Berlin taps contactless cards, while Dublin pubs still favor cash after midnight. Finally, clear-bag stadium rules apply overseas, but dimensions vary slightly. A one-gallon zip bag meets every code, though a transparent cross-body keeps hands free for pints and selfies.
Final Thoughts
The NFL's 2025 overseas slate turns a regular Sunday ritual into a passport-stamping adventure. Book flights soon, start the passport clock now, and stay flexible on ticket resale drops. Pack a CLEAR bag, a portable charger, and earplugs for the trans-Atlantic red-eye. With a little prep, you will cheer touchdowns under new skies and come home with travel stories that last longer than the season. 2025 NFL international games await.