A regulated Canadian immigration consultant, Marie Keita Amarteifio, has issued a crucial warning to Ghanaian football fans planning to travel for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, stressing that securing match tickets or hotel bookings does not guarantee visa approval.

The consultant emphasised that while enthusiasm for the Black Stars is high, it must be matched by meticulous immigration preparation.

"Simply having a match ticket or accommodation booking does not guarantee approval. Each applicant must independently satisfy the visitor visa requirements," Amarteifio told Citi Sports.

The core requirements for approval

Amarteifio clarified that visas are assessed individually based on several key criteria that applicants must prove, regardless of their reason for travel: Strong Ties to Ghana: Evidence of employment, family, property, or other commitments that ensure the applicant will return home.

Clear Travel Intentions: A well-defined and plausible purpose for the trip. Valid Documentation: A current passport and other required travel documents.

Sufficient Financial Capacity: Proof of funds to cover all travel, accommodation, and living expenses for the duration of the stay.

Urgent advice for potential travelers

With interest expected to surge as the tournament approaches, Amarteifio offered two essential pieces of advice: 1. Apply Early: Avoid last-minute rushes that could compromise an application.

2. Use Official Channels: Steer clear of individuals or agents who promise guaranteed visas, as all applications must be processed through official embassy and consulate procedures.

The warning comes as the Black Stars intensify their on-field preparations for the expanded 48-team tournament in the United States, Canada, and Mexico.

Ghana's quest to improve on their group-stage exit from the 2022 World Cup begins with a friendly against Austria in March, part of a series of warm-up matches aimed at fine-tuning the squad for the global spectacle.