Overstay and face the consequences - US Embassy warns Ghanaian World Cup fans
The Charge d’Affaires of the US Embassy in Ghana, Rolf Olson, has cautioned Ghanaians travelling to the United States, particularly for the upcoming World Cup, against overstaying their visas, describing it as a serious offence with far-reaching consequences.
Addressing a press conference at the Embassy in Accra today, Friday, February 20, 2026, Mr Olson said Customs and Border Protection officers would determine the length of stay granted to each visitor upon arrival in the United States.
He explained that although the standard period for a B visa, which supporters would need to apply for, is generally six months, the duration of stay is not automatic and remains at the discretion of the immigration officer at the port of entry.
“For a B visa, the standard generally is six months, but it's not automatic. So, it is incumbent upon the amount of time that the CBP officer gives you. If they give you 90 days, you have 90 days. You have three months.
“If you’re given six months, you have six months which is a long time. I think we can all agree that six months is enough time to go watch the World Cup matches, spend some time with friends, go on a vacation if you wanted to do that, and still return,” he said.
The Charge d’Affaires stressed that Ghanaians must respect US immigration laws and regulations, including adhering strictly to the terms of their visas. He warned that overstaying is considered a breach of the law and could result in penalties such as deportation and future visa denials.
Mr Olson further clarified that while Ghana currently benefits from a five-year multiple-entry visa arrangement, consular officers retain the authority to limit the validity of a visa where necessary.
“The consular officer can limit the validity of a visa. It is in their power to do that. There is no automatic five-year multiple entry. Generally, that’s the standard, and we generally apply that for most travelers.
“You'll have the opportunity to go again, if you wish. But, limiting the length of time is a normal thing for any country that's watching its immigration, obviously, and controlling the visitor flow,” he said.
He disclosed that the US Embassy has opened tens of thousands of new visa appointment slots in an effort to reduce waiting times and encouraged prospective applicants to apply early or reschedule for earlier interview dates where possible.
The caution comes amid heightened interest from Ghanaian supporters seeking to travel to the United States for the global football tournament, with embassy officials reiterating that compliance with immigration rules is essential to maintaining travel privileges.
