The United States Embassy in Accra has warned Ghanaians planning to travel to the U.S. for the 2026 World Cup to strictly follow immigration rules, especially regarding visa durations and not overstaying.
While announcing the opening of thousands of new visa appointment slots, the Embassy emphasised that travellers must comply with their approved period of stay, noting that overstaying visas will not be tolerated.
Speaking to the press on Friday, February 20, Chargé d’Affaires Rolf Olson said the expanded visa appointments are available to all visitor visa applicants, including those attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
He encouraged prospective travellers to apply early while reminding them that being granted a visa comes with the responsibility to follow U.S. immigration laws.
“I’m going to be clear about this, as of today, February 20, we have added tens of thousands of people to the World Cup, and indeed, we have lots of appointments available now. We’ve been putting out the message on social media, radio, and now I’m here today to help everyone hold that message.
“We recognise that there is a little bit of frustration with the extended wait time, not a decent 30%, yes.
“Today, I’m happy to say that thanks to this surge in council personnel, we have the visitor visa plan available next week, and the week after, and the week after that. And everyone benefits from this increased visa plan availability, so whether you’ve been planning to book your appointment or whether or not you can bring an existing appointment forward, which you can do, do it now,” he said.
However, Mr. Olson made it clear that obtaining a visa does not automatically guarantee entry into the United States or determine how long a visitor can stay.
“I think it’s important to clarify something. Every country has its immigration practices in place, and there’s a certain truth about that. It’s really incumbent upon every visitor to respect the laws of the country they’re in. And that’s both in terms of the conduct of the country as well as how long they are in the state. Now, in our case, there’s an understanding of the distinction; the visa itself is a permission to apply for entry at the border.
“So the visa allows you to get on a plane. Without the visa, the airline won’t let you travel. When you get to the border at the airport, it’s the customs border patrol officer who then officially gives you entry. It is that individual who will determine how long you have to stay. Now, the visa itself doesn’t range a specific amount of time. It’s that officer who has that.”
He explained that U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers at the port of entry determine admission and the length of stay, and travellers must leave before their authorised period expires.
The Embassy clarified that there are no special or expedited visa procedures specifically for World Cup attendees, as existing processes are sufficient.
Applicants who have not yet booked appointments or who wish to reschedule earlier dates were urged to act quickly, as slots are limited.
The Embassy reaffirmed its commitment to working with the Government of Ghana to support lawful travel for the tournament, while reminding all travellers that adhering to visa rules is essential for maintaining future travel privileges.
