The meeting to replace the disgraced Sepp Blatter began with a video montage that noted FIFA's need to restore its "credibility" and move past the period of unprecedented scandal that has plagued the organisation in recent months.
Five candidates led by Sheikh Salman Erahim Al Khalifa, Gianni Infantino and former FIFA vice-president Prince Ali bin al Hussein lead the presidential contest.
Acting president Issa Hayatou said the congress would be a "watershed moment" for FIFA after the scandal of the past year.