Accra: The U.S. Embassy in Accra has advised tourists and others travelling to the United States for the upcoming 2026 FIFA World Cup to engage in conduct that is related to the World Cup. Additionally, visitors from all countries participating in the World Cup have been cautioned to observe U.S. laws and respect the terms of their visas.
According to Ghana Web, Rolf Olson, Charg© d'Affaires of the U.S. Embassy in Ghana, made these statements during a media engagement session on visa services in Accra. When asked by Malik Sullemana, a Senior Journalist with The Ghanaian Times, about the safety of Ghanaian fans and supporters in light of recent Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) arrests, Olson assured that the U.S. government would provide a safe environment for all visitors.
Olson emphasized the importance of carrying valid travel documents at all times, stating, "So, if you're entering the country on a valid passport with a valid U.S. visa, you should be having that with you at all times." He also highlighted that U.S. President Donald J. Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and other government officials have repeatedly affirmed their commitment to making the 2026 FIFA World Cup the best in history.
In addressing concerns about visa overstays, Olson warned against such actions, noting that overstaying a visa is against U.S. immigration laws. "We strongly encourage people, and expect people who are granted visa to go to the U.S. to observe the terms of that visa, from the length of time you're there to when they're actually leaving. People who have exceeded the terms of their visa are breaking the law. And we will take that very seriously in that sense," Olson added.