The United States Embassy in Ghana has announced an expansion of US visa slots for Ghanaians, allowing thousands more non-immigrant visa appointments for travellers. The increase comes as Ghanaians prepare to attend the 2026 FIFA World Cup, which the U.S. will co-host with Mexico and Canada. This move is aimed at addressing the anticipated surge in demand for short-term travel visas, especially among football fans looking to attend matches across multiple host cities.
The embassy urged applicants to apply early, particularly those who do not already hold a valid visa. Officials emphasised that while appointment availability has increased significantly, US visa slots for Ghanaians still require applicants to meet all security and eligibility requirements. Applicants must provide the necessary documentation, including proof of financial stability, travel plans, and ties to Ghana, to demonstrate their intent to return home after their visit.
To further manage the high volume of applications, the embassy has introduced the FIFA Prioritised Appointment Scheduling System, widely known as FIFA Pass. The system is designed to give priority scheduling to ticket holders for World Cup matches, making it easier for them to secure timely visa interviews. While FIFA Pass can expedite appointment access, embassy officials note that it does not guarantee approval of US visa slots for Ghanaians. All applicants remain subject to standard U.S. visa procedures, including background checks and security screening.
With the United States hosting the majority of World Cup matches, including the final, the demand for visas is expected to rise sharply. Ghanaian football fans planning to travel for the tournament are encouraged to take advantage of the expanded US visa slots for Ghanaians as early as possible. Embassy sources indicate that early application may help travellers avoid long waiting periods, which are common during peak times for major sporting events.
The expanded visa slots come amid broader immigration policy changes by the U.S. Department of State. Beginning January 21, 2026, the department paused all immigrant visa issuance for nationals of certain countries, including Ghana. This policy, which is based on higher rates of public assistance use by some immigrant groups, does not affect non-immigrant visas. Short-term visas, covering tourism, business, and attendance at sporting events, remain fully available for Ghanaian travellers seeking US visa slots for Ghanaians.
Applicants are reminded that even with non-immigrant visas, approval is not automatic. Travelers must still meet all eligibility criteria, including proving that they will comply with U.S. law and leave the country at the conclusion of their visit. Embassy officials have reiterated that visa decisions are made on a case-by-case basis, with security considerations remaining a top priority.
The FIFA Pass system allows World Cup ticket holders to schedule priority visa appointments at the U.S. Embassy in Accra. The platform is expected to reduce congestion in scheduling and streamline the process during this busy period. By focusing on applicants with verified ticket purchases, the system aims to ensure that those attending the tournament can complete their visa interviews in a timely manner, helping more applicants secure US visa slots for Ghanaians.
Even with FIFA Pass, the embassy has emphasized that applicants must undergo all standard security screenings. The system is intended to facilitate scheduling and manage high demand but does not bypass the necessary vetting procedures required for U.S. non-immigrant visa approval. Applicants should ensure they complete all forms accurately and provide all supporting documentation to avoid delays.
The introduction of additional US visa slots for Ghanaian represents a focused effort to support travellers attending the 2026 FIFA World Cup while maintaining U.S. immigration security standards. Eligible applicants who meet all requirements can now access more appointment opportunities, increasing the likelihood that they will secure a visa in time to attend the tournament.
The U.S. Embassy in Ghana has expanded non-immigrant visa appointments to accommodate the expected surge in applications. Travelers are encouraged to apply early and utilize the FIFA Pass system to schedule interviews. Embassy officials stress that visa approval continues to depend on compliance with U.S. laws, security screening, and verification of travel intent. This measure aims to ensure a smooth process for football fans traveling from Ghana to the United States for one of the world’s most anticipated sporting events.
Read also: Rory McIlroy Crowned BBC Sports Personality of the Year 2025
