The United States Embassy in Ghana has cautioned Ghanaian travellers planning to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup against overstaying their visas.
The Embassy warned that violations of U.S. immigration laws could lead to serious consequences, including future travel ineligibility.
Visa Compliance Is Mandatory
The Charge d’Affaires, Rolf Olson, issued the warning during a media engagement in Accra aimed at clarifying visa procedures and appointment availability ahead of the tournament.
The engagement forms part of ongoing collaboration between the United States and Ghana to ensure smooth participation in the tournament by the national team, officials and supporters.
The 2026 World Cup, to be co-hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico, will be the largest in history, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches. With Ghana among the qualified nations, thousands of supporters are expected to travel to cheer on the Black Stars.
Visa Does Not Guarantee Length of Stay
Mr Olson emphasised that while a U.S. visa allows a traveller to board a flight and request entry, it does not automatically determine the length of stay.
He explained that officials of the U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the port of entry decide how long a visitor may remain in the country.
“For a B visa, the standard generally is six months, but it is not automatic,” he said, noting that a shorter period may be granted depending on individual circumstances.
Travellers, he stressed, must depart the United States before their authorised stay expires.
“People who have exceeded the terms of their visa are breaking the law, and we will take that very seriously,” Mr Olson warned.
He added that overstaying could negatively affect future visa applications, as U.S. immigration law treats such violations with gravity.
Expanded Visa Appointments
Mr Olson disclosed that since mid-January, additional consular officers have been deployed to Accra, allowing the Embassy to add hundreds of interview slots daily and tens of thousands of B visa appointments in the months leading up to the World Cup.
As of February 20, numerous appointment slots remain available — a marked improvement from previous years when non-immigrant visa wait times exceeded one year.
“There’s no reason to wait to apply for a B visa,” he urged, while noting that appointment capacity is not unlimited.
No Special Visa Category for World Cup
The Charge d’Affaires clarified that there are no special visa categories or relaxed rules for World Cup travellers. All applicants must meet standard eligibility requirements under U.S. immigration law.
He noted that applicants do not need to possess a World Cup ticket before applying, and holding a ticket does not influence a consular officer’s decision.
Warning Against Visa Fraud
On fraud prevention, Mr Olson cautioned against engaging so-called visa fixers, stressing that no individual or agency can guarantee visa approval.
“You do not need to pay anyone to secure a visa,” he said, adding that the only required payment is the official application fee.
He also advised travellers to check passport validity before applying, noting that U.S. regulations require at least six months’ validity at the time of entry. Those planning to travel for the World Cup should ensure their passports remain valid through at least early 2027.
