The Vatican's representative to the United Nations has suggested that a visit on the coming 70th anniversary of the world body would be 'the ideal time'.
Speaking to Associated Press, Archbishop Bernardito Auza said if the pontiff travels to Philadelphia for family rally, he will also go to New York.
Pope Francis has previously spoken of his desire to visit the United States and has received invitations from President Barack Obama and Congress and the UN secretary-general, Ban Ki-moon.
Archbishop Bernadito was speaking ahead of upcoming exhibition at the UN where centuries-old manuscripts relating to St Francis of Assisi will be on display later this month
Pope Francis, a Jesuit from Argentina, was the first to name himself after the 13th-century friar who gave up his wealth to minister to the poor.