Ghana Tourism Authority denies collecting fees for World Cup visas

The Ghana Tourism Authority (GTA) has officially refuted allegations that it collected money from individuals seeking visa opportunities for the 2026 FIFA World Cup. In a statement addressing the claims, the Authority clarified its role in promoting tourism during the tournament and emphasized that it has no mandate to charge for visa services or guarantee their issuance. The clarification comes amid public scrutiny regarding the transparency of travel assistance provided by state agencies for international sporting events.

GTA Chief Executive Officer Maame Efua Houadjeto explained that the Authority’s involvement is strictly limited to facilitating introductions and providing guidance on the application process. While the GTA has engaged with the U.S. Embassy and the Canadian High Commission to understand specific requirements for travelers, the actual visa processing remains the sole prerogative of the respective diplomatic missions. The CEO stressed that the GTA does not issue visas and cannot influence the outcome of any individual application, nor does it have the authority to act as a middleman for fee collection.

According to the statement, all participants are responsible for their own expenses, including standard embassy visa fees and their own travel arrangements. The GTA also addressed concerns regarding the selection of participants for its tourism activities, defending the inclusion of various media representatives. The Authority noted that partnering with the media is a standard strategy to market Ghana's interests and enhance tourism promotion during high-profile global events like the World Cup.

By setting the record straight, the GTA aims to protect its institutional integrity and ensure that prospective travelers are not misled by unauthorized claims or third-party actors. The Authority encouraged the public to adhere to official channels and recognized protocols when applying for travel documents for the 2026 tournament, which will be hosted across North America. This proactive communication serves as a reminder that travel facilitation by state bodies does not bypass the legal requirements of foreign consulates.