The United States Embassy has advised Ghanaians intending to travel for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to strictly observe the terms of their visas and avoid overstaying.
It cautioned that breaching U.S. immigration regulations could carry serious repercussions, including disqualification from future travel to the United States.
The Charge d’Affaires, Mr. Rolf Olson, delivered the message during a media briefing in Accra on Friday, aimed at explaining visa processes and appointment availability ahead of the global tournament.
The session forms part of continued cooperation between the Embassy and the Government of Ghana to facilitate smooth travel arrangements for the national team, officials, and supporters participating in the 2026 competition.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup, which will be jointly hosted by the United States, Canada, and Mexico, is expected to be the biggest edition yet, featuring 48 teams and 104 matches.
With Ghana securing qualification, a large number of fans are anticipated to journey abroad to support the Black Stars.
Although the Embassy has expanded visa interview capacity, Mr. Olson underscored that all visitors must comply with U.S. immigration laws.
He clarified that a visa permits a traveller to board a plane and seek entry into the United States, but it does not automatically determine the duration of stay.
According to him, the Customs and Border Protection officer at the port of entry decides how long a visitor may remain in the country.
“For B visa holders, six months is typically granted, but it is not guaranteed,” he explained, noting that officials may approve a shorter stay depending on individual circumstances.
He emphasised that travellers must leave the United States before their authorised period expires.
Anyone who remains beyond the permitted duration violates the law, and such cases are treated seriously, he stated.
Mr. Olson added that overstaying could harm future visa applications, as U.S. immigration authorities regard such infractions with strict scrutiny.
He noted that most B visas issued to Ghanaians are valid for multiple entries over five years, though consular officers may adjust validity when necessary.
The multiple-entry arrangement, he explained, offers sufficient opportunity for repeat visits, eliminating any need to extend a stay unlawfully.
“Six months is ample time,” he said, pointing out that it is adequate for attending matches, visiting relatives, or touring before returning home.
Addressing concerns about law enforcement in the United States, Mr. Olson assured that lawful visitors carrying valid passports and visas, and who abide by immigration rules, should not face problems.
He advised travellers to keep their passports and visas with them at all times and to comply with all U.S. laws and regulations.
The warning comes as the Embassy has significantly increased visa appointment availability.
Mr. Olson revealed that since mid-January, additional consular staff have been assigned to Accra, allowing the Embassy to open hundreds of extra interview slots each day and tens of thousands of B visa appointments in the lead-up to the tournament.
As of February 20, many appointment dates remain open — a notable improvement compared to previous years when non-immigrant visa waiting periods exceeded 12 months.
He encouraged prospective travellers to apply promptly.
“There is no need to postpone applying for a B visa,” he said, while noting that expanded capacity still has limits.
Mr. Olson further clarified that there are no special visa provisions or eased requirements for World Cup attendees. Applicants must satisfy the usual eligibility criteria under U.S. immigration laws.
He explained that applicants are not required to have purchased a World Cup ticket before applying, and possessing one does not affect the consular officer’s decision.
On the issue of fraud, he warned against using intermediaries or so-called visa agents who promise guaranteed approvals.
“No one can secure a visa for you,” he stressed, adding that the only legitimate cost involved is the official application fee.
He also urged travellers to confirm that their passports meet validity requirements, noting that U.S. regulations require at least six months’ validity at the time of entry.
Those planning to travel for the tournament this year should ensure their passports remain valid until at least early 2027, he advised.