The Charge d’Affaires of the US Embassy in Ghana, Rolf Olson, has cautioned Ghanaians planning to travel to the United States for the 2026 FIFA World Cup to strictly adhere to immigration rules, warning that visa overstays carry severe consequences.
Addressing a press conference in Accra on Friday, February 20, 2026, Mr. Olson stressed that travellers must not assume they are automatically entitled to stay for six months upon entering the US.
According to him, Customs and Border Protection officers determine the length of stay for every visitor at the port of entry.
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He explained that although B visas — which most football supporters apply for — are generally valid for six months, the duration granted is entirely at the discretion of the immigration officer.
“For a B visa, the standard generally is six months, but it’s not automatic. If they give you 90 days, you have 90 days. If you’re given six months, you have six months, which is more than enough time to watch matches, visit friends, and return,” he said.
Mr. Olson warned that overstaying a visa is a serious violation of US immigration law and could lead to deportation, long-term travel restrictions, and future visa denials.
He urged travellers to respect the conditions of their stay and avoid actions that could jeopardise their chances of visiting the US again.
+The Charge d’Affaires further clarified that although Ghanaian applicants currently enjoy a five-year multiple-entry visa arrangement, this privilege is not automatic.
He noted that consular officers have the authority to limit visa validity where necessary.
“There is no automatic five-year multiple entry. Consular officers can limit the validity. That is within their power,” he stated.
He explained that such measures are part of efforts by immigration authorities to regulate visitor flow and protect national security.
Mr. Olson also revealed that the embassy has opened tens of thousands of new visa appointment slots to reduce waiting times.
He encouraged prospective applicants to apply early and take advantage of rescheduling options to secure earlier interview dates.
The warning comes amid growing interest from Ghanaian football fans hoping to travel to the US for the global tournament, with embassy officials emphasising that compliance with immigration laws is key to sustaining Ghana’s favourable visa standing.